DictionarydespiteScornful ill will
noun

despite

Scornful ill will toward someone

He speaks of his former rival with undisguised despite.

Etymology

Latin despicere meant to look down on. Despite names the contempt and hostile feeling directed toward someone regarded from that figuratively superior position.

More examples

  • She feels nothing but despite for the man who betrayed her.
  • His despite shows in every cruel remark about his neighbor.
  • Years of despite poison their relationship.

Forms

despite

Similar words

malice
Emphasizes the desire to harm rather than scorn.
spite
Often suggests petty resentment and a wish to hurt.
contempt
Emphasizes looking down on someone, without necessarily wishing harm.