# despised

/dɪˈspaɪzd/ (US) · /dɪspˈaɪzd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/despised
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

hated very much or looked down on by others. You use this to describe someone or something that people think is worthless or bad.

For teachers: regarded with deep contempt or intense dislike. Often used as a participial adjective to describe a person, group, or object that is socially or morally rejected.

## Examples

- The despised leader finally left the country.
- He went from being a despised outsider to the most popular member of the team.
- The once despised architectural style underwent a critical re-evaluation, eventually becoming a celebrated symbol of the city's mid-century heritage.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He was despise by everyone" but "He was despised by everyone" — When used as an adjective or in the passive voice, the word must take the '-ed' ending.

## Usage notes

- Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'feel' or 'become', or attributively before a noun.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.