offend

of-fend · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    (transitive) To cause someone to feel hurt, upset, or insulted.

  2. 2.

    (intransitive) To commit an illegal act; to break the law.

  3. 3.

    (transitive) To be displeasing or disagreeable to the senses.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    offend against — To act contrary to or violate (a rule, principle, etc.)
  • •
    easily offended — Quick to take offense

Related words

Antonyms: compliment, delight, please
See also: offence, offended, offense, offensive
Synonyms: affront, displease, hurt, insult, upset

Etymology

From Latin offendere ("to strike against, stumble, displease"), from ob- ("against") + fendere ("to strike").