contempt

The definition of contempt is a feeling of scorn towards another person or an act showing disrespect for someone or something.

(noun)

An example of contempt is the feeling that someone has for a person who stole her precious jewelry.

See contempt in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

the feeling or attitude of one who looks down on somebody or something as being low, mean, or unworthy; scorn
the condition of being despised or scorned
the punishable act of showing disrespect for the authority or dignity of a court (or legislature), as by disobedience, unruliness, etc.
in full contempt of court (or congress, etc.)

Origin: OFr < L contemptus, scorn, pp. of contemnere: see contemn

See contempt in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

The feeling or attitude of regarding someone or something as inferior, base, or worthless; scorn.
The state of being despised or dishonored; disgrace.
Open disrespect or willful disobedience of the authority of a court of law or legislative body.

Origin:

Origin: Middle English

Origin: , from Latin contemptus

Origin: , past participle of contemnere, to despise; see contemn

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