disdain 1 of 2

disdain

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb disdain differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of disdain are contemn, despise, and scorn. While all these words mean "to regard as unworthy of one's notice or consideration," disdain implies an arrogant or supercilious aversion to what is regarded as unworthy.

disdained popular music

When might contemn be a better fit than disdain?

The words contemn and disdain are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, contemn implies a vehement condemnation of a person or thing as low, vile, feeble, or ignominious.

contemns the image of women promoted by advertisers

In what contexts can despise take the place of disdain?

While the synonyms despise and disdain are close in meaning, despise may suggest an emotional response ranging from strong dislike to loathing.

despises cowards

When is scorn a more appropriate choice than disdain?

In some situations, the words scorn and disdain are roughly equivalent. However, scorn implies a ready or indignant contempt.

scorns the very thought of retirement

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of disdain
Noun
Donald Trump concurred, if only to show disdain for Obama. David Remnick, New Yorker, 21 June 2025 Dobbins cited his father, Lance, being a diehard Red Sox fan when explaining his disdain for the pinstripes. Gary Phillips, New York Daily News, 15 June 2025
Verb
The Minervois is a sunny land of black truffles, red marble, oak and juniper forests and castles constructed by Cathars (pescatarian Christians who disdained the symbol of the cross, were branded as heretics and subsequently slaughtered wholesale by Papal decree in the 13th century). Tom Mullen, Forbes, 2 Mar. 2025 The Republicans who disdained him and tried to terminate his leadership have made his point by leaving the party and becoming Democrats (or at least voting for Democrats). Isaac Chotiner, New Yorker, 1 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for disdain
Recent Examples of Synonyms for disdain
Noun
  • This containment allows partners to express anger, frustration or hurt without slipping into destructive patterns like contempt, stonewalling or emotional withdrawal.
    Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
  • Rather, state law says they can be held in contempt of court or sued by the Colorado Attorney General’s Office.
    Shelly Bradbury, Denver Post, 13 July 2025
Verb
  • As the moon clashes with Saturn, the sense that you’ve been disrespected eats at you.
    USA TODAY, USA Today, 9 July 2025
  • Ramsey reportedly was routinely late for team practices and openly disrespected McDaniel, Grier and former defensive coordinator Vic Fangio in front of teammates.
    Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 8 July 2025
Noun
  • There’s a great tradition in sports of being driven by a fear, or a hatred, of that feeling.
    Louisa Thomas, New Yorker, 14 July 2025
  • She’s been feeling so much hatred, so much anger, so much sadness, so much disappointment these last few episodes.
    Lynette Rice, Deadline, 13 July 2025
Verb
  • Fans wouldn't hate adding an extra game to the football season.
    Evan Massey, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 July 2025
  • It was purposefully exploited because people will hate anything that’s different.
    Ryan Gajewski, HollywoodReporter, 11 July 2025
Verb
  • Centrists despised the deep cuts to programs for the poor and elderly.
    Philip Elliott, Time, 1 July 2025
  • Many of them love their country but despise what the regime has turned it into.
    Efrat Lachter, FOXNews.com, 30 June 2025
Verb
  • His ostentatious well-being is scorned by Walker, who equates equilibrium with compromise.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 8 July 2025
  • As master of ceremonies at her Fool’s Moon cabaret, Puella displays the kind of unearned self-assurance that usually wins praise for men and scorn for women.
    Michael Snyder, New York Times, 24 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Disdain.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/disdain. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on disdain

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