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condescending

Condescending (adjective) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

adjective

IPA:

/ˌkɒndɪˈsɛndɪŋ/

What does condescending mean?

Having or showing a patronizing or superior tone, as if looking down on others.
"He spoke to her in a condescending tone, as if she were a child."

Detailed Meaning of Condescending

It often implies that the person who is being condescending believes that they are intellectually or socially superior to the person or group they are interacting with. It is often used to describe someone who speaks or acts in a way that belittles or demeans others, making them feel inferior. This attitude can take the form of verbal or nonverbal communication, and it can be directed at individuals or groups. Condescending behavior is often seen as arrogant and disrespectful, as it implies that the person being condescending does not consider or value the opinions or feelings of others. Overall, the word "condescending" refers to an attitude or behavior characterized by a patronizing or superior tone, as if looking down on others, belittling or demeaning others and making them feel inferior, usually seen as arrogant and disrespectful.

Example Sentences for Condescending

1. His condescending tone during the presentation annoyed the entire team.
2. She had a habit of making condescending remarks about others' choices.
3. The condescending attitude of the customer service representative only worsened the situation.
4. Despite his intelligence, his condescending behavior made it difficult to connect with him.
5. The manager's condescending demeanor towards his employees created a hostile work environment.
6. Her condescending smile implied superiority over everyone else in the room.

Origin and Etymology of Condescending

The adjective 'condescending' has its roots in Latin, specifically from 'condescendere,' which combines 'con-' (with) and 'descendere' (to descend or lower oneself). It entered the English language in the 17th century. 'Condescending' describes having or showing a patronizing or superior tone, as if looking down on others. The etymology of 'condescending' effectively conveys the idea of descending or lowering oneself to interact with others, but in a way that might come across as belittling or demeaning. Whether used to describe condescending remarks, condescending behavior, or a condescending attitude, this term underscores the sense of superiority or arrogance that often accompanies interactions where one person assumes a position of authority or superiority over others.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the adjective condescending:

appreciative

patronizing

admiring

respectful

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Condescending

1. The condescending way he explained the concept made the students feel inadequate.
2. The author's condescending portrayal of the characters alienated readers.
3. It's important to communicate respectfully without sounding condescending.
4. The condescending comments from the judge shook the confidence of the contestants.
5. His condescending mannerisms masked his insecurities.
6. The condescending nature of the debate left no room for constructive discussion.
7. She often used condescending language to belittle her opponents.
8. The condescending advice he gave came across as insincere and dismissive.
9. The condescending behavior of the celebrity disappointed their fans.
10. He attempted to dominate the conversation with his condescending anecdotes.
11. The condescending way he treated his colleagues hindered collaboration.
12. The condescending tone of the article undermined its credibility.
13. Despite her achievements, she remained humble and avoided being condescending.
14. His condescending remarks showcased a lack of empathy for others' perspectives.