Definitions

contemptuous

[kuhn-temp-choo-uhs] / kənˈtɛmp tʃu əs /

ADJECTIVE

arrogant, insolent

Synonyms

STRONGEST

condescending derisive disdainful disrespectful haughty insulting scornful

WEAK

audacious bold cavalier cheeky cold-shoulder contumelious cool derisory dog it hard hard-nosed high-and-mighty high-hat on high horse opprobrious sardonic sneering snippy snobbish snooty snotty supercilious temperamental uppity upstage

Antonyms

STRONGEST

flattering humble praising respectful

WEAK

polite respected shy

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Sara Hershkowitz’s wildly contemptuous Queen adds further soprano glory.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 27, 2026

Before long, the band was playing in New York, rubbing shoulders with Patti Smith, Talking Heads and Blondie at CBGBs and shaking punks out of their contemptuous indifference.

From BBC • Mar. 17, 2026

The novel is narrated by Karishma’s embittered son Mohit decades after the events, and his attitude toward most of the family is cynical and contemptuous.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 11, 2026

Ukrainian analysts said the government in Kyiv deemed the decision "contemptuous".

From Barron's • Dec. 18, 2025

Draco shot Harry, Ron, and Hermione one contemptuous look, then settled himself between his mother and father.

From "Harry Potter And The Goblet Of Fire" by J. K. Rowling

Vocabulary lists containing contemptuous

To Kill a Mockingbird

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Grade 10, List 2

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The Pearl

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