What does despicably mean?
"Despicably" is an adverb describing actions done in a manner that deserves contempt or scorn. It derives from the Latin verb "despicere," meaning "to look down on," and entered English through the adjective "despicable," which has been in use since the early 17th century. When someone behaves despicably, they act in a way that is shameful, vile, or morally beneath acceptable standards — betraying a friend, exploiting the vulnerable, or lying for personal gain are all conduct one might condemn as despicable. The word also functions as an intensifier, meaning "extremely" or "utterly," as in a "despicably low" price or "despicably cold" weather, though this use leans literary and often carries an ironic edge. Common synonyms include contemptibly, shamefully, and disgracefully. Because of its strong moral charge, "despicably" is best reserved for genuinely outrageous behavior rather than minor faults, where softer terms like "badly" or "poorly" would be more fitting.
In a manner deserving of contempt or scorn.
"The general despicably abandoned his troops to their fate."
Carries strong moral condemnation; typically describes deliberate wrongdoing rather than mere incompetence.
Extremely; used to emphasize a negative quality.
"They paid the workers a despicably meager wage."
Literary or ironic register; less common than the primary sense.
Behind 'despicably' lies the Latin 'despicere' — literally 'to look down on' — so calling someone's behavior despicable is, etymologically speaking, looking down your nose at it.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of despicably
"Despicably" traces back to the Latin verb "despicere," meaning "to look down upon," formed from "de-" (down) plus "specere" (to look). It developed in English from the adjective "despicable," borrowed via French or directly from Late Latin "despicabilis," attested in English from the early 17th century. The adverb followed naturally with the standard "-ly" ending. It shares its Latin root with related forms such as "despise" and "despite."
Related word forms
How despicably is actually used
Formal to neutral register, more common in written than casual spoken English. The intensifying sense ('despicably few') is somewhat literary and often carries an ironic or emphatic tone.
Easily confused with despicably
'Desperate' means feeling or showing hopeless urgency, while 'despicably' means in a contemptible or shameful manner — the words merely share a similar opening sound.