contempt
Say it: kun-TEMPT /kənˈtɛmpt/ · noun
What “contempt” means
Feeling someone or something is worthless and beneath you.
More precisely: The feeling that someone or something is worthless or beneath consideration.
Example: “Psychologist John Gottman found that contempt, like eye-rolling and mockery, strongly predicts divorce.”
When to use it
For a harsh feeling of superiority that dismisses someone as worthless. Stronger than ordinary dislike, often critical.
Similar words
scorn, disdain, derision
Where it comes from
From Latin contemnere, "to despise."
Quick check
Someone sneers at a cleaner as if the cleaner is worthless and beneath them. What are they showing?
contempt or anger?
Show the answer
contempt
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