noun

1. extreme, often indignant, contempt for someone or something; utter disdain
2. expression of this in words or manner
3. the object of such contempt

Etymology: ME < OFr escharn < escharnir, to scorn < Gmc base akin to OHG skernon, to mock, scern, a joke < IE base *(s)ker-, to leap, jump about > Gr skairein, to jump, dance

transitive verb

1. to regard with scorn; view or treat with contempt
2. to refuse or reject as wrong or disgraceful

intransitive verb