contemptuous
5 synonyms and 1 antonym for contemptuous, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Showing or feeling contempt; scornful and disrespectful.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
Etymology
From Latin contemptus ("contempt") plus the adjective-forming suffix -ous.
Full origin of contemptuous →Frequently asked questions
What does “contemptuous” mean?
The word “contemptuous” means showing or feeling contempt; scornful and disrespectful. In plain terms, displaying scorn or disdain toward someone or something.
How do you pronounce “contemptuous”?
“Contemptuous” is pronounced kuhn-TEHM-choo-uhs (/kənˈtɛmp.t͡ʃu.əs/ in IPA).
How do you use “contemptuous” in a sentence?
Here is “contemptuous” used in a sentence: “He gave a contemptuous laugh at the suggestion.”
What is another word for “contemptuous”?
Words with a similar meaning to “contemptuous” include disdainful, dismissive and slighting.
What is the opposite of “contemptuous”?
The opposite of “contemptuous” — its antonyms — is respectful.
What part of speech is “contemptuous”?
“Contemptuous” is an adjective.
Where does the word “contemptuous” come from?
The word “contemptuous” comes from Latin. From Latin contemptus ("contempt") plus the adjective-forming suffix -ous.
