contemn

verb con·temn \kən-ˈtem\

Definition of CONTEMN

transitive verb

: to view or treat with contempt : scorn

— con·tem·ner also con·tem·nor \-ˈtem-nər, -ˈte-mər\ noun

Origin of CONTEMN

Middle English contempnen, from Middle French contempner, from Latin contemnere, from com- + temnere to despise

First Known Use: 15th century

Related to CONTEMN

Synonyms: scorn, dis (also diss) [slang], disdain, disrespect, high-hat, look down (on or upon), slight, sniff (at), snoot, snub

Antonyms: honor, respect

Synonym Discussion of CONTEMN

despise, contemn, scorn, disdain mean to regard as unworthy of one's notice or consideration. despise may suggest an emotional response ranging from strong dislike to loathing <despises cowards>. contemn implies a vehement condemnation of a person or thing as low, vile, feeble, or ignominious <contemns the image of women promoted by advertisers>. scorn implies a ready or indignant contempt <scorns the very thought of retirement>. disdain implies an arrogant or supercilious aversion to what is regarded as unworthy <disdained popular music>.

Rhymes with CONTEMN

ad rem, ahem, AM, Arnhem, Belém, bluestem, brain stem, condemn, FM, GM, idem, in rem, item, main stem, mayhem, Menem, millieme, modem, poem, problem, pro tem, proem, Shechem

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