How to Pronounce Despise

To pronounce "despise", say DESP-is-e — 3 syllables, IPA /dɪˈspaɪz/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

despise

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Accent

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Speed

Syllable by syllable — tap each one

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Syllables

Letters

/dɪˈspaɪz/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “despise”

"despise" has 3 syllables: desp-is-e. It rhymes with scrutinize and surmise, if that helps it stick.

What does despise mean?

verb

To regard with contempt or scorn.
To disregard or ignore.

Synonyms

contemn disdain scorn

Antonyms

admire cherish honor respect treasure

Hear “despise” in real sentences

Real example sentences from Tatoeba (CC-BY) — tap to hear each one, or see it used on YouGlish.

Words that rhyme with despise

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

scrutinize surmise aggrandize emphasize recognize actualize analyze reprise comprise likewise demise rise

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "despise"?▾

"Despise" has 3 syllables: desp · is · e.

What is the IPA transcription of "despise"?▾

The IPA transcription of "despise" is /dɪˈspaɪz/.

What does "despise" mean?▾

Despise: To regard with contempt or scorn.

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