Definition of condescendnext
1
as in to stoop
to descend to a level that is beneath one's dignity I will not condescend to answer the sore loser's charge that I cheated in order to win the race

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2
as in to patronize
to assume or treat with an air of superiority wealthy people who tend to be condescending toward their poor relations

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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 condescend Ross described strict rules and constant shouting from guards and condescending treatment at the detention facility in Louisiana. Jade Le Deley, Los Angeles Times, 12 May 2026 That is, until she’s condescended by her chic coworker Emily (Emily Blunt), admonished by Miranda, and given a makeover by Runway art director Nigel (Stanley Tucci). Jami Ganz, New York Daily News, 1 May 2026 He is entitled, dismissive and will go out of his way to say something cruel and condescending when nothing at all would have sufficed. ABC News, 29 Apr. 2026 Michelle tries to correct the record, with her babydoll voice, and Jasmine starts yelling at her and telling her not to condescend to her and talk to her like a child. Brian Moylan, Vulture, 16 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for condescend
Recent Examples of Synonyms for condescend
Verb
  • In what is likely his final World Cup, the 34-year-old scored his first international major tournament goal, stooping to nod Liverpool team-mate Ryan Gravenberch’s cross home after 50 minutes.
    Jacob Whitehead, New York Times, 14 June 2026
  • Grow tomatoes, vegetables, herbs, or your favorite flowers comfortably without the need to bend or stoop.
    Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 11 June 2026
Verb
  • The result is drivers who never fully bought into the system altering their spending patterns to avoid patronizing Chicago businesses, restaurants and cultural attractions where street parking payment is required.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 22 June 2026
  • The traumas come from the way people responded, how they’ve been patronized and gaslit and shunned.
    Eliana Dockterman, Time, 10 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Condescend.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/condescend. Accessed 26 Jun. 2026.

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