noun

contempt

contempt, scorn, disdain

He showed contempt for the rules.

He showed contempt for the rules.

She was held in contempt of court.

She was held in contempt of court.

((for sb./sth.)) a feeling of contempt for someone or something He has a deep contempt for liars.

in contempt of court a legal term for disrespecting the court The witness was held in contempt of court.

Synonyms: scorn, disdain, disrespect; Antonyms: respect, admiration

From Latin 'contemnere' (to scorn), from 'con-' (intensive prefix) + 'temnere' (to slight, scorn).

Think of 'con-' (with) and 'tempt'. Someone you hold in contempt is someone you wouldn't even be tempted by.

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