Scornful
mediumNegative toneSKORN-ful
adjective
Definition
Feeling or expressing contempt or derision
Memory hook
Full of SCORN — looking down on others with contempt and derision.
Examples
“She gave a scornful laugh at his suggestion.”
“His scornful attitude offended his colleagues.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“She gave a ______ laugh at his suggestion.”
Show answer
scornful
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Scornful is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "contemptuous" or "disdainful" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "respectful".
Related GRE Words
disdainful
Showing contempt or lack of respect
contemptuous
Showing contempt; scornful; disdainful
condescending
Having or showing an attitude of patronizing superiority
patronizing
Treating with an apparent kindness that betrays a feeling of superiority
ambivalent
Having mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something
animosity
Strong hostility or hatred
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