CONTEMPT Meaning and
Definition
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Contempt is a noun that refers to a feeling of disdain or scorn towards someone or something perceived as unworthy, inferior, or deserving of disrespect. It is characterized by an expression of intense disapproval or disrespect, often accompanied by a sense of moral superiority. Contempt may arise from a perceived violation of societal norms, ethical standards, or personal values, generating a strong feeling of aversion or disgust.
In social interactions, contempt can be conveyed through verbal insults, mocking remarks, or dismissive gestures, aimed at belittling or undermining the target. It is a manifestation of a negative judgment that the person or object being despised is regarded as being beneath consideration, unworthy of serious attention, or lacking in value.
Contempt can also be nonverbal, expressed through facial expressions such as a sneer or an eye-roll, body language signaling disgust or indifference, or by intentionally avoiding interaction or engagement. The emotion itself can result from various sources, including personal, social, or cultural factors, and may be triggered by perceived arrogance, dishonesty, incompetence, or immorality.
While contempt can be a natural response to behavior or attitudes that violate one's personal beliefs or principles, it is important to consider its potential negative consequences. Contemptuous attitudes towards others can lead to hostility, prejudice, or the breakdown of relationships. Building empathy, understanding, and open-mindedness can be effective ways to counteract and reduce contempt in order to promote a more harmonious social environment.
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The act of despising; the act of viewing or treating as utterly mean, vile, and worthless; disobedience or disrespect to a court, or to a constituted authority; disgrace; shame.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for CONTEMPT *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for CONTEMPT
Etymology of CONTEMPT
The word "contempt" originated from the Latin word "contemptus", which is the past participle of "contemnere". In Latin, "con" means "together" or "with", and "temnere" means "to despise" or "to scorn". Therefore, "contemnere" implies to disdain or hold something in low regard. Over time, the word evolved into "contempt" in English, retaining its original meaning of feeling or expressing scorn or disdain towards someone or something.
Idioms with the word CONTEMPT
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in contempt (of court)
The idiom "in contempt (of court)" refers to the act of intentionally behaving disrespectfully or defiantly towards a court, judge, or legal proceedings. It can involve actions such as ignoring court orders, disrupting court proceedings, or displaying insolence towards the authority of the court. Being found in contempt can result in penalties or punishments, including fines, imprisonment, or other sanctions.
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hold someone or something in contempt
To hold someone or something in contempt means to have a strong feeling of disdain, scorn, or disrespect towards them or it. It refers to a deep sense of contemptuousness or disregard for someone's character, actions, or beliefs, considering them unworthy of respect or consideration.
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beneath contempt
The idiom "beneath contempt" refers to something or someone being considered so morally reprehensible, unworthy, or insignificant that they do not deserve any attention, consideration, or respect.
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Familiarity breeds contempt.
The idiom "Familiarity breeds contempt" means that the more you know or are exposed to someone or something, the more likely you are to start finding faults or disliking them. The phrase suggests that close and prolonged contact can breed a sense of boredom, irritation, or disdain.
Similar spelling words for CONTEMPT
- contaminate,
- contender,
- contemn,
- self-contempt,
- condemn,
- Thesaurus:contempt,
- contents,
- contentedly,
- contented,
- contain,
- content,
- contemplate,
- contentious,
- contini,
- contention,
- contend,
- contentment.
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