noun

1. the feeling or attitude of one who looks down on somebody or something as being low, mean, or unworthy; scorn
2. the condition of being despised or scorned
3. 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.) contempt of court (or congress, etc.)

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