despise
verb (used with object)
to regard with contempt, distaste, disgust, or disdain; scorn; loathe.
have despised
-
present perfectof despise.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Old families of nobles may have despised the “nouveau riche,” but they still married them if they needed the money.
From Textbooks ● Jan. 1, 2020
Once he got near them, in a work capacity, he could have despised them for giving him professional attention because he was powerful.
From The Guardian ● Sep. 8, 2019
It’s a story Lovecraft would have despised, and that’s a good thing, Keith Phipps writes.
From Slate ● Dec. 18, 2018
In the end, bloated, costly pay-TV bundles, which consumers have despised for years, could be killed off by a mouse.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 11, 2017
Instead I loathed her pride, her lies, and her disdain of me when I should have despised myself for lying to Gertrude.
From "Ophelia" by Lisa Klein
