contempt — the feeling that a person or thing is beneath consideration, worthless, or deserving scorn
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: the feeling that a person or thing is beneath consideration, worthless, or deserving scorn
Pronunciation (IPA): /kənˈtempt/
Example Sentences
- The food critic's contempt for fast food was so obvious that McDonald's stopped inviting him to taste tests.
- His contempt for social media was ironic, considering he spent three hours a day scrolling through Instagram.
- The professor was held in contempt of court for refusing to remove his lucky socks during the trial.
contempt
NOUN[/kənˈtempt/]
the feeling that a person or thing is beneath consideration, worthless, or deserving scorn
She looked at him with contempt before walking away.
The critic spoke with contempt during the interview. (😒 Look Down On + 🚫 No Respect → Contempt)
His contempt vanished after his opponent's successful attempt earned everyone respect, leaving no one exempt.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'contemptus', the past participle of 'contemnere', meaning 'to treat with disdain or scorn'. This combines 'con-' (with/against) and 'temnere' (to despise).
Breakdown
con- (against/with) + temn- (despise) + -pt (past participle marker) + -us (Latin nominative ending) = contempt
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The food critic's contempt for fast food was so obvious that McDonald's stopped inviting him to taste tests.”
“His contempt for social media was ironic, considering he spent three hours a day scrolling through Instagram.”
“The professor was held in contempt of court for refusing to remove his lucky socks during the trial.”
“She viewed his excuses with complete contempt and walked away.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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