An aorist verb (with no present form in common use) carrying two contrasting senses. The primary meaning involves looking away from other things to focus attention on something specific—directing one's gaze toward a particular object or person with concentration. The second sense, perhaps growing from the idea of looking away, takes on the metaphorical meaning of despising or regarding with contempt. The directional element ('away from other things') underlies both the concentrated attention of the first sense and the dismissive attitude of the second.