condescension

noun

con·​de·​scen·​sion ˌkän-di-ˈsen(t)-shən How to pronounce condescension (audio)
1
: patronizing attitude or behavior
scoffing condescension by the "we know better than you" peopleA. 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
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.
But there’s something more to the Kalimotxo, something that seems to be immune to sophomoric tedium or mixological condescension, something that keeps people going back decade after decade. Jason O'Bryan, Robb Report, 11 Oct. 2025 But Russell’s performance was a beam of pure light, burning off any condescension. Emily Nussbaum, New Yorker, 6 Oct. 2025 Jenny struggles with underemployment, loneliness, condescension from the men in her life, the disapproval of her cougar mother and, worst of all for her, her failure to conceive a child. Barbara Ellis, Denver Post, 21 Sep. 2025 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 See All Example Sentences for condescension

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1647, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of condescension was in 1647

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Cite this Entry

“Condescension.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/condescension. Accessed 15 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

condescension

noun
con·​de·​scen·​sion ˌkän-di-ˈsen-chən How to pronounce condescension (audio)
: the attitude or behavior of a person who condescends

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