Contempt

Definition

Contempt refers to a feeling of disdain or scorn toward someone or something regarded as inferior, worthless, or deserving of disrespect. It is also used in legal contexts to describe willful disobedience or disrespect for court orders or authority.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈtɛmpt/
• Respelling: kuhn-TEMPT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈtɛmpt/
• Respelling: kuhn-TEMPT

The pronunciation of "contempt" is identical in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "contempt" comes from the Latin word "contemptus," meaning "scorn" or "disdain," derived from "contemnere," meaning "to despise" or "to treat as unworthy." The term entered the English language in the 14th century and has since been used to describe feelings of disdain or disrespect, as well as legal violations.

Derivatives

• Contemptuous (adjective)
• Contemptuously (adverb)
• Contemptuousness (noun)
• In contempt (legal phrase)
• Contemptible (adjective)

Synonyms

• Scorn
• Disdain
• Disrespect

Antonyms

• Respect
• Admiration
• Approval

Usage

Contempt is often used in both personal and legal contexts. In everyday usage, it refers to feelings of scorn or disdain for someone or something considered beneath consideration or respect. In legal contexts, contempt refers to behavior that defies or disrespects a court's authority, such as contempt of court, which can result in penalties. For example, "He showed contempt for the rules by openly disregarding them," or "She was held in contempt of court for refusing to testify."

Related Terms

• Disrespect: Lack of regard or consideration for someone or something.
• Derision: Ridicule or mockery aimed at someone or something considered unworthy.
• Scorn: Open dislike or disrespect, often mixed with indignation or disdain.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A feeling of disdain or scorn: Refers to an emotional reaction of disrespect or disgust toward someone or something deemed unworthy or inferior.
  • Example: "She looked at him with contempt after his rude remarks."
• Willful disobedience or disrespect toward authority, particularly in legal settings: Describes a situation in which a person violates the rules or authority of a legal body, such as a court.
  • Example: "The witness was fined for contempt of court after failing to comply with the judge’s orders."