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Definition of condescending

condescending

/ˌkɑːn.dəˈsɛn.dɪŋ/
con · de · scend · ing
Adverb:condescendingly
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condescending Lexical Profile

condescending Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Having or showing an attitude of patronizing superiority toward others.

Example

"The manager spoke in a condescending tone, explaining basic concepts as if the experienced team knew nothing."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for condescending
Antonyms
View all antonyms for condescending

Word Nuance & Usage

In earlier centuries (such as in Jane Austen's novels), 'condescending' was a compliment meaning gracious or willing to waive the privileges of high rank to treat social inferiors kindly; in modern English, it is strictly negative and means patronizing.

• Rhymes for condescending

• Nearby Words

condensed
condenser
condescend
condescending
condescendingly
condescension
condiment

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from the verb 'condescend', which entered Middle English via Old French from Late Latin condescendere, meaning 'to let oneself down' (combining com- 'together' and descendere 'to descend').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Condescending. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/condescending
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