condescend — to behave in a way that shows you think you are better or more important than other people
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to behave in a way that shows you think you are better or more important than other people
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˌkɑːndɪˈsend/
Example Sentences
- My boss condescends to us like we're children who can't tie our own shoes.
- She condescended to eat fast food, acting like it was beneath her.
- The professor condescended to answer questions as if we were interrupting his genius thoughts.
condescend
VERB[/ˌkɑːndɪˈsend/]
to behave in a way that shows you think you are better or more important than other people
The senior partner had to condescend to explain basic spreadsheets to the new intern.
Even as you condescend and descend, we'll defend!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'condescendere', combining 'con-' (with/together) and 'descendere' (to descend/go down). The metaphorical sense of descending to a lower level evolved to mean lowering oneself to interact with someone of perceived lower status.
Breakdown
con- (with/together) + descend (go down) + -ent (present participle) = condescend (to lower oneself, to interact in a patronizing manner)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My boss condescends to us like we're children who can't tie our own shoes.”
“She condescended to eat fast food, acting like it was beneath her.”
“The professor condescended to answer questions as if we were interrupting his genius thoughts.”
“Don't condescend to me - I understand the situation perfectly well.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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