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 Almost all of the account’s posts right now are mimicking Donald Trump’s distinct tweeting style, replete with condescending nicknames, weirdly formal phrasing, and multiple-exclamation-point bluster. Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone, 20 Aug. 2025 These can often be perceived as condescending, disguising advice within a seemingly innocuous question. Julie Kratz, Forbes.com, 17 Aug. 2025 Anyone who has asked Shildt a legitimate (and often harmless) question and gotten a flummoxed look and then a response that ranges from condescending to combative knew what was coming. Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 Aug. 2025 Such assumptions may be inaccurate and even condescending. Judith Martin, Mercury News, 23 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for condescend
Recent Examples of Synonyms for condescend
Verb
  • Dier was stooping slightly but the Portuguese midfielder’s leg was at least chest-high.
    Jordan Campbell, New York Times, 1 Oct. 2025
  • This position involves stooping, lifting and consolidating large bags of recycling and refuse.
    Kirby Adams, Louisville Courier Journal, 16 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Theetge said the city is addressing the challenges caused by an uptick in crime downtown this summer and called on citizens to continue to patronize businesses in the urban core.
    Cameron Knight, Cincinnati Enquirer, 14 Oct. 2025
  • Rather than inspire enthusiasm, the event lineup left the employee feeling patronized.
    Lydia Patrick, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Condescend.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/condescend. Accessed 22 Oct. 2025.

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