DISDAIN Synonyms: 140 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

disdain 1 of 2

noun

dis-ˈdān

Definition of disdain next

as in contempt

open dislike for someone or something considered unworthy of one's concern or respect showing undisguised disdain for the other employees

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

disdain

2 of 2

verb

dis-ˈdān

as in to disrespect

to show contempt for disdained the deserter as a coward

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

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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