contempt
kuhn-TEMPT
Contempt (noun) means a feeling that someone or something is beneath consideration, worthless or deserving of scorn. Example: “She looked at the offer with open contempt.”
noun
1
A feeling that someone or something is beneath consideration, worthless or deserving of scorn.
"She looked at the offer with open contempt."
"He spoke of his rivals with nothing but contempt."
"The critic treated the film with undisguised contempt and walked out early."
2
technical The offence of disobeying or disrespecting a court of law, or obstructing its work.
"He was held in contempt for refusing to answer."
"The witness was fined for contempt after shouting at the judge."
"Ignoring the court order could land you in prison for contempt."
How to use contempt
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThinking someone or something is worthless or beneath you.
Common pairings
open contempt
contempt of court
beneath contempt
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She looked at the offer with open _____.
Etymology
From Latin "contemptus," from "contemnere," to scorn or despise.
Synonyms
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Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does contempt mean?
Regarding someone or something as worthless or beneath you. It is stronger than dislike — it carries a sense of looking down from above.
What is contempt of court?
A legal offence covering behaviour that defies or obstructs a court: refusing a lawful order, disrupting proceedings, or publishing material that prejudices a case. It can be punished with a fine or imprisonment.
What is the meaning of contempt?
"contempt" (noun) means a feeling that someone or something is beneath consideration, worthless or deserving of scorn.
What is another word for contempt?
Other words for "contempt" include scorn, disdain, derision, despite, disrespect.
