Contempt

/kənˈtɛmpt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The feeling that a person or a thing is beneath consideration, worthless, or deserving scorn.

She looked at the messy room with contempt.

Lack of respect or reverence for something.

His contempt for authority was evident in his rebellious behavior.

The offense of being disobedient to or disrespectful toward a court of law and its officers.

He was held in contempt of court for refusing to testify.

Late Middle English: from Latin contemptus, from contemnere 'despise' (see contemn).

hold in contempt

To regard someone or something with disdain or derision.

contempt of court

A legal term describing behavior that shows a lack of respect for the court.

look upon with contempt

To regard someone or something as worthless or despicable.

contemn

To treat or regard with disdain or contempt.

disdain

The feeling that someone or something is unworthy of consideration.

scorn

The feeling or belief that someone or something is worthless.

To totally dismiss someone or something.

He just contempted all her suggestions.

Looking down on something as less important.

She contempted his efforts without a second thought.