patronizing
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.
Calling it “wholesome” isn’t right; that’s too patronizing.
From Salon • Apr. 12, 2026
You know how we adults are inclined to respond to such unbridled optimism: With patronizing pats on the head.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2026
You can empathize with your friend without demonizing your own position or patronizing her by saying everything will be OK.
From MarketWatch • Mar. 2, 2026
Xavier is much older than she is and seems, frankly, somewhat stupid and patronizing, but the narrator is nevertheless tormented by her feelings for him.
From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 17, 2025
Where some idiot like myself would have been smug and patronizing, the demoness really wanted to learn.
From "Dragonwings" by Laurence Yep
Vocabulary lists containing patronizing
The SAT: Words to Capture Tone, List 2
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The New SAT: Words to Capture Tone
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The Hunger Games
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