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Definitions

patronizing

[pey-truh-nahy-zing, pa-] / ˈpeɪ trəˌnaɪ zɪŋ, ˈpæ- /
ADJECTIVE
condescending
Synonyms
Antonyms
STRONGEST
humble unconceited


NOUN
condescension
Synonyms
Antonyms


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 can empathize with your friend without demonizing your own position or patronizing her by saying everything will be OK.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 2, 2026

A spokeswoman for Ruemmler said that in her message to Epstein, she was “obviously patronizing him.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 6, 2026

A system that sells a triumph of courage regardless of outcome risks patronizing women athletes, rather than respecting their actual achievements.

From Slate • Jun. 28, 2025

Amaka smiled into the mirror, a thin, patronizing smile that seemed to say I should not have bothered lying to her.

From "Purple Hibiscus" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie




Vocabulary lists containing patronizing