contemptuous — Showing or expressing deep disrespect, scorn, or disdain for someone or something. Characterized by a feeling of superiority and dismissive attitude.
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: Showing or expressing deep disrespect, scorn, or disdain for someone or something. Characterized by a feeling of superiority and dismissive attitude.
Pronunciation (IPA): /kənˈtemptʃuəs/
Example Sentences
- The food critic's contemptuous review made the restaurant owner cry into his soup.
- His contemptuous rejection of all modern art revealed his narrow-minded perspective.
- The teenager's contemptuous eye-roll was so dramatic it practically created its own weather system.
contemptuous
ADJECTIVE[/kənˈtemptʃuəs/]
Showing or expressing deep disrespect, scorn, or disdain for someone or something. Characterized by a feeling of superiority and dismissive attitude.

She gave him a contemptuous look and walked away.

The critic sounded contemptuous during the interview. (😒 Look Down On + 🚫 No Respect → Contemptuous)

His contemptuous attitude disappeared after his opponent became victorious and glorious.
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'contemnere' meaning 'to despise or scorn.' The word literally meant 'to look down upon completely.'
Breakdown
con- (completely/thoroughly) + temn- (to despise/scorn) + -uous (adjective suffix meaning 'full of')
🎵Rhyme
📝Examples
“The food critic's contemptuous review made the restaurant owner cry into his soup.”
“His contemptuous rejection of all modern art revealed his narrow-minded perspective.”
“The teenager's contemptuous eye-roll was so dramatic it practically created its own weather system.”
“She was contemptuous of people who valued money over relationships.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Want to master 19,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.