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

These days, Ozick comes in for a different kind of condescension: How can anyone so old be so sublime? —Linda Hall, Vulture, 13 Mar. 2025

But this appreciation was often tinged with condescension. —Susan Tallman, The Atlantic, 12 Mar. 2025

And the whole broadcast had that identity-light, politics of condescension vibe. —Cristina Escobar, refinery29.com, 3 Mar. 2025

The case was written up in the Mexican media with indignation (primarily highlighting the work’s political incorrectness), and countless local outlets derided Gallardo with xenophobic condescension. —Fabiola Iza, Artforum, 1 Mar. 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