spurn Definition
- 1reject with disdain or contempt
- 2kick at or tread on disdainfully
Using spurn: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "spurn" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
She spurned his advances and walked away.
Example
He spurned the offer of a job in the city.
Example
The horse spurned the hay and kicked it away.
Example
The team spurned several chances to score.
spurn Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using spurn
to reject or show ingratitude towards someone who has helped or supported you
Example
After he became successful, he spurned the hand that fed him and refused to help his old friends.
Example
After being insulted by his boss, he spurned the dust and quit his job on the spot.
Example
Despite his parents' efforts to discipline him, he continued to spurn the rod and misbehave.
Phrases with spurn
Example
Despite his repeated attempts, she spurned his advances.
reject or refuse an opportunity that is presented
Example
He spurned the opportunity to work for a prestigious company and instead chose to start his own business.
Example
Despite his friend's warnings, he spurned his advice and invested all his money in the stock market.
Origins of spurn
from Old Norse 'sporna', meaning 'to kick'
Summary: spurn in Brief
The verb 'spurn' [spərn] means to reject with disdain or contempt, often accompanied by kicking or treading on something. It can refer to romantic advances, job offers, or opportunities, as in 'She spurned his advances and walked away.' 'Spurn' also appears in idioms like 'spurn the hand that feeds you,' meaning to reject those who have helped you, and 'spurn the dust,' meaning to leave dramatically.
