GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English
Found one definition
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Despise , v. t. [imp. & p. p. Despised ; p. pr. & vb. n. Despising.] [OF. despis-, in some forms of despire to despise, fr. L. despicere, despectum, to look down upon, despise; de- + spicere, specere, to look. See Spy, and cf. Despicable, Despite.] To look down upon with disfavor or contempt; to contemn; to scorn; to disdain; to have a low opinion or contemptuous dislike of.1913 Webster
Fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Prov. i. 7.1913 WebsterMen naturally despise those who court them, but respect those who do not give way to them.
Jowett (Thucyd. ).Syn. -- To contemn; scorn; disdain; slight; undervalue. See Contemn.
1913 Webster