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Meaning of be condescending
to talk or behave in a way that shows you think you are better or more intelligent than others
Etymology of be condescending
The word "condescending" comes from the verb "condescend", which is derived from the Latin words "con" (meaning "together") and "descendere" (meaning "to descend"), and originally meant "to come down" or "to stoop", often in a figurative sense, such as coming down from a position of superiority to interact with someone of lower status
Historically, the word "condescend" was used to describe the act of voluntarily lowering oneself to a level considered beneath one's dignity, often in a way that was perceived as gracious or benevolent
Over time, the word "condescending" took on a more negative connotation, implying a sense of superiority or patronage
Synonyms
Definitions
- Having or showing an attitude of superiority, often in a way that is intended to make others feel inferior or less capable
- * Talking or behaving in a way that is intended to make others feel inferior or less capable, often in a way that is perceived as insulting or offensive
Usage Examples
- The professor was accused of being condescending to his students, talking down to them as if they were children
- * The manager's condescending tone made the employees feel belittled and unappreciated
- * The condescending attitude of the salesperson made me feel like I was bothering them, so I took my business elsewhere