scorn
10 synonyms and 0 antonyms for scorn, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To feel or show strong contempt for someone or something.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
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.
How to use scorn
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French escharnir, ultimately traced to a Germanic root connected to mockery or ridicule; possibly related to a separate root meaning "to shear" or "cut."
Full origin of scorn →Frequently asked questions
What does “scorn” mean?
The word “scorn” means to feel or show strong contempt for someone or something. In plain terms, a strong, often visible form of contempt — more intense than mere disapproval.
How do you pronounce “scorn”?
“Scorn” is pronounced skawn (/skɔɹn/ in IPA).
How do you use “scorn” in a sentence?
Here is “scorn” used in a sentence: “He scorned the offer, calling it an insult.”
What part of speech is “scorn”?
Depending on how it is used, “scorn” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “scorn” come from?
The word “scorn” comes from Old French. From Old French escharnir, ultimately traced to a Germanic root connected to mockery or ridicule; possibly related to a separate root meaning "to shear" or "cut.".
Is “scorn” a common word?
“Scorn” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.
How many meanings does “scorn” have?
“Scorn” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to feel or show strong contempt for someone or something.