adjective

dismissive

dihs-MIHS-ihv

Dismissive (adjective) means showing that you consider something not worth serious attention. Example: “He gave a dismissive wave of his hand and walked off.”

adjective

Showing that you consider something not worth serious attention.

"He gave a dismissive wave of his hand and walked off."

How to use dismissive

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishActing like something or someone doesn't deserve your attention or respect.

Common pairings

dismissive attitude dismissive of dismissive tone

Word forms

more dismissive comparative, most dismissive superlative

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He gave a _____ wave of his hand and walked off.

Etymology

From dismiss plus the adjective-forming suffix -ive.

Rhymes for dismissive

five give dive live olive drive alive strive derive active arrive native

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Frequently asked questions

What does “dismissive” mean?

The word “dismissive” means showing that you consider something not worth serious attention. In plain terms, acting like something or someone doesn't deserve your attention or respect.

How do you pronounce “dismissive”?

“Dismissive” is pronounced dihs-MIHS-ihv (/dɪsˈmɪs.ɪv/ in IPA).

How do you use “dismissive” in a sentence?

Here is “dismissive” used in a sentence: “He gave a dismissive wave of his hand and walked off.”

What part of speech is “dismissive”?

“Dismissive” is an adjective.