Definition of "offend" in English

verb

1. (transitive) To hurt the feelings of; to displease; to make angry; to insult.

   • Your accusations offend me deeply.

2. (intransitive) To feel or become offended; to take insult.

   • Don't worry. I don't offend easily.

3. (transitive) To physically harm, pain.

   • Strong light offends the eye.

4. (transitive) To annoy, cause discomfort or resent.

   • Physically enjoyable frivolity can still offend the conscience

5. (intransitive) To sin, transgress divine law or moral rules.

6. (transitive or with "against") To transgress or violate a law or moral requirement.

   • Wearing faded baggy offends against the club's rules of proper dress.

7. (obsolete, transitive, archaic, biblical) To cause to stumble; to cause to sin or to fall.