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offend

of·fend

offend

 
 
pronunciation:
fend
parts of speech:
transitive verb, intransitive verb
features:
Word Combinations (verb), Word Explorer, Word Parts
part of speech: transitive verb
inflections: offends, offending, offended
definition 1: to anger, annoy, or provoke resentment in.
The speaker's harsh criticisms offended some members of the audience.Cruelty to animals offends most people.The statement was perceived as an ethnic slur, and it offended many.
synonyms:
abuse, affront, anger, gall, insult, irk, miff, nettle, pique, rile, torment, vex
similar words:
aggravate, embarrass, exasperate, humiliate, incense, injure, nauseate, outrage, rankle, slight, snub, wound
definition 2: to be disagreeable to (the sense of taste or smell).
The taste of the cheese is quite nice, but I have to admit that the smell offends me.
synonyms:
disgust, nauseate, repel, revolt, sicken
definition 3: to violate or sin against (a law, religious precept, or the like).
The group claims that the new law would offend the Constitution.
synonyms:
breach, transgress, violate
similar words:
break, disgust
 
part of speech: intransitive verb
definition 1: to cause anger, displeasure, or resentment.
If I have offended in any way, I deeply apologize.
synonyms:
pique
similar words:
chafe, embarrass
definition 2: to violate a human or divine law, rule, or standard of conduct.
synonyms:
err, sin, transgress, trespass
similar words:
backslide, fall, infringe
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derivation: offender (n.)
Word Explorer
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  anger, emotion
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