condescension

noun

con·​de·​scen·​sion ˌkän-di-ˈsen(t)-shən How to pronounce condescension (audio)
1
: patronizing attitude or behavior
scoffing condescension by the "we know better than you" peopleA. J. Anderson
2
: voluntary descent from one's rank or dignity in relations with an inferior

Examples of condescension in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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In his 1978 State of the Union address, Carter subtly channeled their condescension. Harry Boyte and Trygve Throntveit, TIME, 4 Jan. 2025 That’s neither condescension nor criticism: George Lucas created a swashbuckling fairy tale set in space, and its mantle has been taken up by successive generations of filmmakers who encountered it at a formative age. Alison Herman, Variety, 3 Dec. 2024 The thought leaders in the Democratic party are doubling down on their snobbery and condescension while refusing to acknowledge the voters’ repudiation of their entire agenda. Grace Curley, Boston Herald, 13 Nov. 2024 The party’s frequent slide into condescension precludes huge numbers of Americans from listening to its positive message. Colin Pascal, Baltimore Sun, 7 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for condescension 

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin condescension-, condescensio, from condescendere — see condescend

First Known Use

1647, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of condescension was in 1647

Dictionary Entries Near condescension

Cite this Entry

“Condescension.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/condescension. Accessed 21 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

condescension

noun
con·​de·​scen·​sion ˌkän-di-ˈsen-chən How to pronounce condescension (audio)
: the attitude or behavior of a person who condescends

More from Merriam-Webster on condescension

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