despite

[ dih-spahyt ]

preposition

1. in spite of; notwithstanding.

noun

1. contemptuous treatment; insult.
2. malice, hatred, or spite.

verb (used with object)

, de·spit·ed, de·spit·ing.

1. Obsolete. to anger or annoy (someone) out of spite.

despite

/ dɪˈspaɪt /

preposition

1. in spite of; undeterred by

noun

1. archaic.
   contempt; insult
2. in despite of rare.
   preposition in spite of

verb

1. tr an archaic word for spite

Word History and Origins

Origin of despite¹

First recorded in 1250–1300; originally in despite of; Middle English despit, from Old French, from Latin dēspectus “view from a height, scorn,” originally past participle of dēspicere; despicable ( def )

Word History and Origins

Origin of despite¹

C13: from Old French despit, from Latin dēspectus contempt; see despise

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. in despite of, in spite of; notwithstanding:

   He was tolerant in despite of his background and education.

Synonym Study

See notwithstanding.

Example Sentences

But overall, sugar hasn't received a lot of attention from the scientific community despite being the largest cultivated crop by mass on the planet.

From Salon

They said it was the fault of the White House that Ibarra, who entered the US unlawfully in 2022, was able to remain in the country despite his criminal record.

From BBC

The second miracle attributed to Mr Acutis came in 2024, when a university student in Florence was healed despite having bleeding on the brain after suffering head trauma.

From BBC

The Saints are only given a 5.2% of survival by Opta, despite being only four points off safety at this stage.

From BBC

They also remain in a decent position in the Champions League group stage - despite being thrashed by Sporting - but know they must regain their form quickly to stay realistic contenders on all fronts.

From BBC

Related Words

• in spite of
• regardless of