Find Antonyms

contemptuous Antonyms

Opposite of contemptuous

Pinning down the opposite of contemptuous requires matching its exact sense, so the antonyms and opposite words below are paired with a clear adjective definition and ranked by contrast strength.
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• adjective (Context 1)

Feeling or expressing deep disdain, scorn, or a lack of respect toward someone or something regarded as inferior or unworthy.

Usage Example

"The critic offered a respectful dismissal of the novel's predictable plot."

Strongest
respectful
reverent
Strong
admiring
deferential
courteous
appreciative
humble

Similar words to contemptuous

Words similar to contemptuous shift depending on context. Common synonyms include:

scornful
disdainful
derisive
sneering
supercilious
haughty
condescending
dismissive
See all synonyms of contemptuous

• Nearby Words

contempt
contemptible
contemptibly
contemptuous
contemptuously
contend
contender

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Antonyms for Contemptuous. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/antonyms/contemptuous
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