adj
C2
Proficient
contemptuous
kuhn-TEHM-choo-uhs
Contemptuous (adj) means showing or feeling contempt; scornful and disrespectful. Example: “He gave a contemptuous laugh at the suggestion.”
adj
1
Showing or feeling contempt; scornful and disrespectful.
"He gave a contemptuous laugh at the suggestion."
How to use contemptuous
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDisplaying scorn or disdain toward someone or something.
Common mistake
"Contemptuous" describes someone showing contempt; "contemptible" describes someone or something deserving it.
Easily confused with
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more contemptuous
- Superlative
- most contemptuous
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He gave a _____ laugh at the suggestion.
Etymology
From Latin contemptus ("contempt") plus the adjective-forming suffix -ous.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for contemptuous
See all rhymes for 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.
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