disdain 1 of 2

disdain

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb disdain differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of disdain are contemn, despise, and scorn. While all these words mean "to regard as unworthy of one's notice or consideration," disdain implies an arrogant or supercilious aversion to what is regarded as unworthy.

disdained popular music

When might contemn be a better fit than disdain?

The words contemn and disdain are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, contemn implies a vehement condemnation of a person or thing as low, vile, feeble, or ignominious.

contemns the image of women promoted by advertisers

In what contexts can despise take the place of disdain?

While the synonyms despise and disdain are close in meaning, despise may suggest an emotional response ranging from strong dislike to loathing.

despises cowards

When is scorn a more appropriate choice than disdain?

In some situations, the words scorn and disdain are roughly equivalent. However, scorn implies a ready or indignant contempt.

scorns the very thought of retirement

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of disdain
Noun
Historical records, including those of Julius Caesar, have long noted the distinctive roles women played in Celtic society, praising their independence and fighting abilities, but also reflecting Roman disdain for these cultural norms. Michael Gfoeller and David H. Rundell, Newsweek, 16 Jan. 2025 Toward the end of his term, Trump’s disdain for active-duty military officers emerged into the open. Ronald R. Krebs, Foreign Affairs, 14 Jan. 2025
Verb
Michelle, who largely disdains politics, would provide an unusual degree of public support. Evan Osnos, The New Yorker, 13 Oct. 2024 Because technology companies grew large and successful in an era when government deliberately minimized its own role, today’s tech leaders generally see public policy as an impediment to innovation and disdain the grubby business of policymaking and partisanship. Margaret O’Mara, Foreign Affairs, 1 Nov. 2022 See all Example Sentences for disdain 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for disdain
Noun
  • Last fall, Judge Laura Taylor Swain found the city in contempt of a range of court orders and directed the parties to file proposals for an independent receiver.
    Graham Rayman, New York Daily News, 27 Jan. 2025
  • Mueller’s predecessor, Pritzker appointee Marc Smith, was held in contempt of court a number of times for violating court orders by failing to find children appropriate placements in a timely manner, though all or most of those orders were later vacated.
    Olivia Olander, Chicago Tribune, 20 Jan. 2025
Verb
  • In both instances, a lack of transparency left guests feeling disrespected.
    John Yoo and John Shu, Newsweek, 23 Jan. 2025
  • Trump said Tuesday evening that Putin disrespected Biden and wouldn't be permitted to treat him that way.
    Kim Hjelmgaard, USA TODAY, 23 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • Hannah condemned hatred of Muslims in the strongest terms possible, and Pandith did the same against antisemitism.
    Hannah Rosenthal and David Saperstein, Newsweek, 29 Jan. 2025
  • Our tradition compels us to reject violence and hatred and seek paths of reconciliation, understanding and cooperation.
    Rabbi Kenneth Brander, Chicago Tribune, 24 Jan. 2025
Verb
  • James' next opportunity to play will be on Thursday when the Lakers host their biggest and most hated rival, the Boston Celtics, at home.
    Raul A. Reyes, Newsweek, 22 Jan. 2025
  • How the drug middlemen became a $557 billion industry that its customers love to hate Erika Fry MagazineElon Musk Is DOGE even doable?
    Orianna Rosa Royle, Fortune, 22 Jan. 2025
Verb
  • On a sunny but frigid day, a 21-gun salute rang out to honor a no-frills man who famously despised rituals and felt most comfortable living a normal life.
    Dave Goldiner, New York Daily News, 9 Jan. 2025
  • And today’s high 10-year yield means bonds are despised right now.
    Brett Owens, Forbes, 8 Jan. 2025
Verb
  • Trump has long scorned the very notion of domestic extremism, dismissing it as overblown or invented.
    Will Carless, USA TODAY, 10 Jan. 2025
  • After the Iron Curtain fell, tennis exploded in the former communist countries, where tennis had long been scorned as a pursuit of the bourgeoisie.
    Charlie Eccleshare, The Athletic, 16 Jan. 2025

Thesaurus Entries Near disdain

Cite this Entry

“Disdain.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/disdain. Accessed 1 Feb. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on disdain

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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