Contempt

medium

kun-TEMPT

noun

Definition

The feeling that a person or thing is beneath consideration, worthless, or deserving scorn

Examples

She looked at him with utter contempt.
The judge held the defendant in contempt of court.

Synonyms

scorndisdainderisiondisregard

Antonyms

respectadmirationesteemreverence

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

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