offend

/ˈɒfɛnd/

Definitions

1. verb

to cause someone to feel angry, upset, or offended, typically because of something they have said or done.

“Her careless comment was going to offend the audience.”

2. verb

to break a law or rule, especially one that is intended to protect the public.

“The company was fined for offending the pollution regulations.”

3. noun

an act or instance of causing someone to feel angry, upset, or offended.

“The comedian’s off-color jokes were considered an offense to many people in the audience.”

4. noun

a person or thing that causes someone to feel angry, upset, or offended.

“The media outlet became a source of offense for many people in the community.”

5. transitive verb

to cause someone to feel guilty or ashamed, typically because they have done something wrong.

“The teacher’s words were meant to offend the student into realizing their mistake.”

Synonyms

  • abase
  • hurt
  • injure
  • insult
  • outrage

Antonyms

  • amuse
  • delight
  • entertain
  • flatter
  • please