Entry Word: contemptible

Function: adjective

Meaning: 1 arousing or deserving of oneʼs loathing and disgust <the contemptible thieves who stole the Christmas gifts intended for needy children>

Synonyms despicable, lousy, nasty, pitiable, pitiful, scabby, scummy, scurvy, sorry, wretched

Related Words abhorrent, abominable, detestable, execrable, hateful, loathsome, odious; disgusting, repugnant, repulsive; disgraceful, dishonorable, shameful; base, ignoble, low, mean; shabby, sordid, squalid, vile; cowardly, craven, dastardly

Near Antonyms high-minded, honorable, noble, principled; commendable, creditable, laudable, praiseworthy

Antonyms admirable

2 deserving pitying scorn (as for inadequacy) <a contemptible attempt at science fiction> — see pitiful 1
3 not following or in accordance with standards of honor and decency <the contemptible behavior of the students who took part in the hazing> — see ignoble 2