condescension

noun

con·​de·​scen·​sion ˌkän-di-ˈsen(t)-shən 

1

: patronizing attitude or behavior

scoffing condescension by the "we know better than you" people

—A. J. Anderson

2

: voluntary descent from one's rank or dignity in relations with an inferior

Examples of condescension in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

But their methods could often cross over into condescension, Palmer argues, mirroring the attitudes of imperialism that the Soviets often criticized. —Danny Robb, JSTOR Daily, 8 Aug. 2025

Donald Trump’s political allies have long insisted, with more than a little condescension, that the press should take the President seriously, but not literally. —Benjamin Wallace-Wells, New Yorker, 19 July 2025

Friedland’s acute debut feature, drawn from her experience in the memory-care field, is a small miracle of realigned empathy, turning away from the condescension and easy sentiment of so many narratives about late-in-life adaptation. —Robert Abele, Los Angeles Times, 27 June 2025

In addition to the bylaws allegations, Soriano has accused Wulff of bullying and condescension. —Noah Lyons, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin condescension-, condescensio, from condescendere — see condescend

First Known Use

1647, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for condescension

• apprehension
• comprehension
• hypertension
• hypotension
• reinvention
• reprehension
• resuspension
• attention
• contention
• convention
• declension
• detention

Kids Definition

condescension

noun

con·​de·​scen·​sion ˌkän-di-ˈsen-chən 

: the attitude or behavior of a person who condescends