noun
condescension
kahn-dih-SEN-shun/ˌkɑːndɪˈsenʃn/
Treating others as beneath oneself.
She answers my simple question with a tone of condescension.
Etymology
Literally an act of climbing down, condescension first described voluntarily meeting inferiors as equals. The modern attitude retains the implied difference in rank but makes the gesture of equality seem patronizing rather than generous.
In context
John meets his distinguished guest at the door effusively yet with that smiling condescension which wealthy trustees sometimes show to scientists College professors and that sort of thing
More examples
- His praise sounds like condescension when he calls our work surprisingly good.
- The instructor explains basic concepts without a trace of condescension.
- I resent the condescension in your suggestion that I need adult supervision.
Forms
condescension
condescend verb — Treat others as less intelligent or important.
condescending adjective — Showing a patronizing attitude toward others.