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Definition of contemptuous

contemptuous

/kənˈtɛmp.tʃu.əs/
con · temp · tu · ous
Adverb:contemptuously
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contemptuous Lexical Profile

contemptuous Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

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

Example

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

Synonyms
View all synonyms for contemptuous
Antonyms
View all antonyms for contemptuous

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'contemptuous' (feeling or expressing disdain and scorn) with 'contemptible' (deserving of contempt or scorn; despicable).

• Nearby Words

contempt
contemptible
contemptibly
contemptuous
contemptuously
contend
contender

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the early 16th century from Medieval Latin contemptuosus, derived from Latin contemptus ('scorn, disdain'), from the verb contemnere ('to despise or slight').

Cite this Entry

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