Synonyms for

Disdain

Verb / dɪˈsdeɪn / Another word for disdain — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a feeling of contempt for someone or something regarded as unworthy or inferior

Synonyms & similar words

turndown despise contempt contemn poohpooh condescension despite reject spurn freezeoff scorn patronage contempt scorn dislike disapproval disrespect hatred loathing aversion displeasure disgust animosity enmity hostility antipathy abhorrence rejection revulsion detestation abomination repugnance

Synonyms by register

Formal

contempt derision scorn disregard

Informal

looking down on snobbery attitude

Literary

haughtiness superciliousness

Antonyms

respect admiration esteem approval liking regard endorsement

Common collocations

  • feel disdain for
  • show disdain
  • utter disdain
  • with disdain
  • disdain for authority
  • disdain for the common
  • a look of disdain

Word family

noun disdain
verb disdain
adjective disdainful
adverb disdainfully

Usage note

Disdain implies a strong feeling of contempt or scorn for someone or something considered unworthy. It is a formal word, often used to describe a superior attitude.

Example sentences

  1. She showed disdain for the new kid in school.
  2. The athlete had disdain for his lazy teammates.
  3. His boss's disdain for him was obvious.
  4. I have a strong disdain for people who litter.
  5. She could not hide her disdain for the boring lecture.

Quotes

  • 'Disdain and contempt for true merit is capable of being pleased with the most ridiculous pretensions.' - Fielding
  • 'We are infected by our own misunderstanding of how our own minds work.' - Alain de Botton
  • 'The only cure for contempt is counter-contempt.' - H.L. Mencken

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