from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Slight \Slight\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Slighted}; p. pr. & vb. n.
{Slighting}.]
To disregard, as of little value and unworthy of notice; to
make light of; as, to slight the divine commands. --Milton.
[1913 Webster]
The wretch who slights the bounty of the skies.
--Cowper.
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{To slight off}, to treat slightingly; to drive off; to
remove. [R.] -- {To slight over}, to run over in haste; to
perform superficially; to treat carelessly; as, to slight
over a theme. "They will but slight it over." --Bacon.
[1913 Webster]
Syn: To neglect; disregard; disdain; scorn.
Usage: {Slight}, {Neglect}. To slight is stronger than to
neglect. We may neglect a duty or person from
inconsiderateness, or from being over-occupied in
other concerns. To slight is always a positive and
intentional act, resulting from feelings of dislike or
contempt. We ought to put a kind construction on what
appears neglect on the part of a friend; but when he
slights us, it is obvious that he is our friend no
longer.
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Beware . . . lest the like befall . . .
If they transgress and slight that sole command.
--Milton.
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This my long-sufferance, and my day of grace,
Those who neglect and scorn shall never taste.
--Milton.
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