← G3642 G3644 →

ὀλιγωρέω

oligōréō

G3643 verb

SILEX Entry

Definition

To have little regard for, to treat with indifference or neglect; to consider something or someone as of lesser value or importance; to disregard. The primary sense is to show lack of esteem or respect for, whether persons, instructions, or objects.

Semantic Range

to disregard, to neglect, to value little, to treat with indifference, to despise (in the sense of undervaluing), to scorn (mildly), to fail to take seriously

Root / Etymology

From ὀλίγος ('little, few') and cognate with ἀγορέω ('to care for, attend to'), though the precise derivation of the second element is debated. Likely a denominative verb meaning 'to esteem little.'

Historical & Contextual Notes

ὀλιγωρέω is a later and somewhat rare word, not prominent in Classical Greek, but attested in Hellenistic and Koine Greek. Its usage often conveys more than mere emotional disdain, implying neglect, disregard, or a lack of appropriate response (for instance, to warnings or instructions). In the New Testament (e.g., Hebrews 12:5), it expresses not an active hatred but a failure to value or heed, often in connection to discipline or exhortation. LXX usage is parallel, sometimes reflecting the Hebrew BZH (to despise, hold in contempt). Standard English translations such as 'despise' or 'scorn' may overstate the intensity of this word, which can as often mean 'to disregard,' 'to treat lightly,' or 'to neglect.'

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

from a compound of ὀλίγος and ("care"); to have little regard for, i.e. to disesteem:--despise.

Root Family

ὀλιγ- (oligōréō) — to make little, to regard as small, to consider trivial

Root ὀλιγ- to make little, to regard as small, to consider trivial

Word Forms

1 distinct form

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2 Occurrences
G3643-01 ὀλιγώρει oligorei V PRS ACT IMP 2P SG despise regard as little regard as little 1

Occurrences in Scripture

1 occurrence

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2
G3643-01 Hebrews 12:5 ὀλιγώρει oligorei V PRS ACT IMP 2P SG despise regard as little regard as little
← G3642 Greek Lexicon G3644 →