condescending — having or showing a feeling of patronizing superiority
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: having or showing a feeling of patronizing superiority
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˌkɑːndɪˈsendɪŋ/
Example Sentences
- Stop being so condescending - I know how to use a smartphone!
- My boss has a condescending way of explaining things, as if we're all five years old.
- Her condescending comment about my cooking made me never want to invite her again.
condescending
ADJECTIVE[/ˌkɑːndɪˈsendɪŋ/]
having or showing a feeling of patronizing superiority

His condescending smile made the new intern feel two inches tall.

Condescending to those ascending while he's descending
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin condescendere, meaning 'to come down' or 'to descend.' Originally described the act of graciously lowering oneself to help others, but evolved to mean acting superior while pretending to be helpful.
Breakdown
con- (together/with) + de- (down) + scend- (to climb) + -ing (present participle suffix)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“Stop being so condescending - I know how to use a smartphone!”
“My boss has a condescending way of explaining things, as if we're all five years old.”
“Her condescending comment about my cooking made me never want to invite her again.”
“The professor's condescending lecture made students feel stupid rather than educated.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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