despite

de-spite · preposition

imported

Definitions

preposition

  1. 1.

    Without being affected by; in spite of.

  2. 2.

    Used to indicate that something happens or is true although there is a contrary factor.

Related words

Antonyms: because of
See also: although, however, nevertheless
Synonyms: in spite of, notwithstanding, regardless of

Etymology

From Old French despit meaning "contempt, scorn," from Latin despectus meaning "looking down on," from despicere meaning "to look down." Originally a noun meaning "contempt," the prepositional use developed from phrases like "in despite of."