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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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
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
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Recent Examples of condescend
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
President Donald Trump is once again facing backlash, this time for comments made during a recent meeting with West African leaders that many are calling inappropriate and condescending.
—Oumou Fofana, Essence, 11 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for condescend
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
President Donald Trump is once again facing backlash, this time for comments made during a recent meeting with West African leaders that many are calling inappropriate and condescending.
—Oumou Fofana, Essence, 11 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for condescend
Recent Examples of Synonyms for condescend
Verb
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This position involves stooping, lifting and consolidating large bags of recycling and refuse.—
Kirby Adams,
Louisville Courier Journal,
16 Sep. 2025
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The show, known for its Emmy Award winning costumes, was quick to help conceal Coon’s pregnancy without stooping to TV gimmicks.—
Avalon Hester,
PEOPLE,
12 Sep. 2025
Verb
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Those sentiments aren't constructive and can be rather patronizing.—
Alyce Collins,
MSNBC Newsweek,
21 Sep. 2025
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For God’s sake, don’t patronize a restaurant or small business.—
Joe Soucheray,
Twin Cities,
20 Sep. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Condescend.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/condescend. Accessed 2 Oct. 2025.
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