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disdain

noun

/dɪsˈdeɪn/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of disdain

A strong feeling of contempt or distaste, characterized by a lack of respect for something or someone.
"She looked at his new girlfriend with utter disdain."

Detailed meaning of disdain

It can also involve feelings of superiority. Disdain can be directed towards people, ideas, or things, and can be accompanied by a sense of superiority or contempt. The term can be used to describe a strong feeling of contempt or distaste towards something or someone, and can have negative consequences for relationships or interactions. In general, disdain refers to a strong feeling of contempt or distaste.

Example sentences containing disdain

1. The nobleman's disdain for the common folk was evident in the way he ignored them.
2. She looked at the untidy room with disdain, refusing to set foot inside.
3. The renowned chef expressed his disdain for fast food, emphasizing the importance of fresh ingredients.
4. His arrogant disdain for the opinions of others made him unpopular among his peers.
5. The movie critic's disdain for the film was evident in his scathing review.
6. The audience's disdain for the speaker's controversial remarks was palpable in the room.

History and etymology of disdain

The noun 'disdain' has its etymological roots in Old French and Latin. It is derived from the Old French word 'desdaignier,' which means 'to despise' or 'to regard as unworthy.' This Old French term can be traced back to the Latin word 'de' (down from) and 'dignari' (to deem worthy). In Latin, 'dedignari' meant to consider something as beneath one's dignity or unworthy of attention or respect. Over time, 'desdaignier' evolved into 'disdain' in English, retaining its core meaning of a strong feeling of contempt or distaste characterized by a lack of respect for something or someone. The etymology of 'disdain' effectively conveys the concept of looking down upon or rejecting something as unworthy or beneath consideration, emphasizing the sense of contempt and lack of regard associated with this feeling.

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Further usage examples of disdain

1. As an advocate for animal rights, she had nothing but disdain for trophy hunting.
2. The veteran musician's disdain for modern pop music was well-known in the industry.
3. Her disdain for tardiness led her to always arrive early to meetings and appointments.
4. The principal's disdain for dishonesty was clear in his stern speech about academic integrity.
5. The artist's avant-garde work was initially met with disdain by traditional art critics.
6. The team's disdain for their rival was evident in the intensity with which they played the game.
7. His disdain for technology was ironic considering he worked in a tech company.
8. The professor’s disdain for plagiarism was reflected in the strict policies outlined in the syllabus.
9. The community showed disdain for the proposed development, concerned about its impact on the environment.
10. He spoke about the topic with disdain, showing no interest or respect for it.
11. She treated the suggestion with disdain, making it clear that she thought it was ridiculous.
12. He regarded the person with disdain, showing no respect or consideration.
13. She viewed the idea with disdain, feeling that it was unworthy of consideration.
14. Her disdain for dishonesty was evident in her strict code of ethics.
15. He couldn't hide his disdain for the new policy during the meeting.
16. The actress couldn't conceal her disdain for the intrusive paparazzi.
17. Their disdain for the outdated technology was clear as they embraced modern tools.
18. The student's disdain for the assigned reading material was obvious.
19. The team's captain held a deep disdain for unsportsmanlike conduct.
20. The professor's disdain for plagiarism was well-known among students.
21. His disdain for authority figures made it difficult for him to follow rules.
22. The artist's disdain for traditional methods led to groundbreaking creations.
23. The politician's disdain for compromise hindered progress in negotiations.
24. Despite his disdain for public speaking, he faced the crowd with determination.