Contempt
mediumNegative tonekun-TEMPT
noun
Definition
The feeling that a person or thing is beneath consideration, worthless, or deserving scorn
Memory hook
CON-TEMPT: Someone you have contempt for -- you wouldn't even be TEMPTED to respect them.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“She looked at him with utter contempt.”
“The judge held the defendant in contempt of court.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“She looked at him with utter ______.”
Show answer
contempt
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Contempt is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "scorn" or "disdain" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "respect".
Related GRE Words
flout
To openly disregard a rule, law, or convention
ambivalent
Having mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something
animosity
Strong hostility or hatred
antipathy
a deep, settled feeling of dislike or aversion
apprehension
Anxiety or fear that something bad or unpleasant will happen
contemptuous
Showing contempt; scornful; disdainful
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