Langimage
English

spurn

|spurn|

C1

🇺🇸

/spɜrn/

🇬🇧

/spɜːn/

reject with disdain

Etymology
Etymology Information

'spurn' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'spurnan,' where 'spurnan' meant 'to kick away.'

Historical Evolution

'spurnan' transformed into the Middle English word 'spurnen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'spurn.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to kick away,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to reject with disdain.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

an act of spurning; a rejection.

His proposal was met with a spurn.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

to reject with disdain or contempt.

She spurned his offer of help.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/31 19:21