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Definitions

disdain

[dis-deyn, dih-steyn] / dɪsˈdeɪn, dɪˈsteɪn /
NOUN
hate; indifference
Synonyms
STRONGEST
antipathy arrogance aversion contempt derision dislike hatred pride ridicule scorn
STRONG
contumely despisal despite disparagement haughtiness hauteur insolence loftiness sneering snobbishness superciliousness
WEAK
despisement superbity
Antonyms
STRONGEST
admiration affection approval flattery humility like liking love praise regard respect sympathy
STRONG
compliment
WEAK
esteem favor
VERB
scorn
Synonyms
STRONGEST
abhor belittle deride despise pooh-pooh spurn
STRONG
chill cold-shoulder contemn disregard hate ignore refuse reject scout slight undervalue
WEAK
be allergic to look down nose at look down on misprize put down sneer at
Antonyms
STRONGEST
admire cherish like love praise
STRONG
accept allow approve note pay attention regard sanction
WEAK
esteem favor respect

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

His version of disdain is her idea of a fortune.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2026

Everyone hates the Girl Boss, but female founders really were underresourced, and female ambition really was treated with disdain and distrust.

From Slate • Mar. 31, 2026

And too often we disdain politeness as phony rather than respect it as the tribute that vice pays to virtue.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 23, 2026

It is the flip side of his disdain for democratic leaders.

From Salon • Mar. 14, 2026

Pasiphaë looked back at the giant and sniffed with disdain.

From "The House of Hades" by Rick Riordan

Vocabulary lists containing disdain

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The SAT: Words to Capture Tone, List 1

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100 Top "SAT" Words

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!