Definition

1. Verb:
   • To regard or treat as of little worth or account; to hold in low esteem; to despise, scorn, or disparage. The word "vilipend" means to express a very low opinion of someone or something, often with contempt.
   • To express a disparaging or belittling opinion of; to speak slightingly of. It involves the act of criticizing or demeaning through words.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • The arrogant critic would often vilipend the works of new artists, dismissing them as amateurish.
  • It is unprofessional to vilipend a colleague's contributions in a public meeting.
  • He made the mistake of vilipending the traditional customs, which offended many in the community.

Advanced Usage

• Formal/Literary Context: "Vilipend" is a formal, somewhat archaic verb, most often found in literary, academic, or very formal rhetorical contexts. It carries a stronger, more contemptuous tone than synonyms like "disparage" or "belittle."
  • The senator's speech sought not just to disagree with the policy but to thoroughly vilipend its very principles.

Variants and Related Words

• Vilification (n): The act of vilifying; abusive, defamatory speech or writing.
  • The campaign was marked by personal vilification rather than policy debate.
• Vilifier (n): A person who vilifies or vilipends.
  • He was known as a relentless vilifier of his political opponents.

Synonyms

• Despise: To look down on with contempt or aversion.
• Disparage: To speak of or treat slightingly; to belittle.
• Denigrate: To criticize unfairly; to defame.
• Belittle: To represent or speak of as unimportant or of little value.
• Scorn: To treat with contempt or disdain.

Antonyms

• Esteem: To regard highly or favorably.
• Praise: To express warm approval or admiration of.
• Respect: To hold in high or special regard.
• Cherish: To hold or treat as dear; to feel love for.
• Applaud: To express approval, especially by clapping; to praise.

Related Phrases/Idioms

• To hold in contempt: A common phrase with a similar meaning to "vilipend," indicating a profound lack of respect.
  • The court held the witness in contempt for his behavior.
• To speak ill of: To say critical or disparaging things about someone.
  • It is wrong to speak ill of others behind their backs.

Verb

1. belittle
   • The teacher should not deprecate his student's efforts