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

There is no hint of condescension in her writing, which is part of its difficulty and its power. —Literary Hub, 9 Apr. 2026

There is no hint of condescension in her writing, which is part of its difficulty and its power. —Kristen Roupenian, New Yorker, 6 Apr. 2026

As an industrious and self-reliant senior, Ringwald essentially baby-sits her chronically myopic father (Harry Dean Stanton), sews her own clothes and contends with the condescension of her patrician peers. —Duane Byrge, HollywoodReporter, 31 Mar. 2026

Shane hasn’t noticed condescension from Hollywood due to his Internet fame — so most of the doubt comes from himself. —Brian Hiatt, Rolling Stone, 14 Mar. 2026

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