in spite of

phrase

Synonyms of in spite ofnext
: in defiance or contempt of : without being prevented by
succeeded in spite of their opposition

Examples of in spite of in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
He was still named a freshman All-American, in spite of the difficult circumstances. — Ryan Kartje, Los Angeles Times, 26 Aug. 2026 New York City is one of the best places in the world to travel solo—not in spite of its nonstop energy, but because of it. — Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Aug. 2026 On day one, he was recognised multiple times by fans, in spite of being an almost unknown quantity barely a week before. — Chris Waugh, New York Times, 21 Aug. 2026 Historians, preservationists, and activists are finding ways to work their own ideas and stories back into public space, in spite of the obstacles. — Kelsey Ables, The Atlantic, 20 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for in spite of

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1540, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of in spite of was circa 1540

Rhymes for in spite of

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Browse Nearby Words

inspissation
in spite of
in spite of oneself
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“In spite of.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20spite%20of. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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