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contumely

noun

/ˈkɒntjuːmᵊli/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of contumely

Insulting language or treatment that is intended to be offensive and disrespectful.
"The athlete faced contumely from the opposing team's fans throughout the game."

Detailed meaning of contumely

It can be used to describe behavior that is deliberately rude or contemptuous, often aimed at humiliating or demeaning someone else. The word is commonly associated with situations where there is a power imbalance, such as between a boss and an employee, or between an authority figure and a subordinate. Contumely can take many forms, including verbal abuse, public humiliation, and other forms of disrespectful behavior. Overall, the term suggests a deliberate and intentional effort to belittle or demean another person.

Example sentences containing contumely

1. The contumely heaped upon the unpopular politician during the debate was shocking.
2. Despite facing contumely from his peers, he continued to pursue his passion for art.
3. The manager's contumely towards her subordinates created a hostile work environment.
4. He endured the contumely of his classmates but never lost his sense of humor.
5. The critic's contumely in their review was unwarranted and hurtful.
6. In the face of contumely, she responded with grace and composure.

History and etymology of contumely

The noun 'contumely' has its etymological origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'contumelia,' which means 'insult' or 'abuse.' In Latin, 'contumelia' was used to describe insulting language or treatment that was intended to be offensive and disrespectful. Over time, this term made its way into English as 'contumely,' retaining its fundamental meaning of offensive and disrespectful language or treatment. The etymology of 'contumely' effectively conveys the concept of intentional insult and abuse, emphasizing the use of words or actions to demean or humiliate others.

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Further usage examples of contumely

1. The online forum was filled with contumely directed at anyone with a differing opinion.
2. Despite the contumely, the whistleblower stood by their decision to speak out.
3. Contumely has no place in a respectful and civil society.
4. He bore the contumely of being the first in his family to pursue higher education.
5. The contumely he received for his unconventional ideas only fueled his determination.
6. In the courtroom, the lawyer argued against the contumely directed at his client.
7. The contumely directed at the author for their controversial novel was relentless.
8. The politician responded to the contumely with a well-reasoned and eloquent speech.
9. The actor faced contumely from critics who didn't appreciate his unique style.
10. The student's academic achievements were met with contumely by jealous classmates.
11. The contumely of the online trolls did not deter her from expressing her opinions.
12. She handled the contumely directed at her with a dignified silence.
13. The contumely directed at the referee by angry fans was disgraceful.
14. The boss's constant contumely made her dread going to work each day.