condescension

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   affability to your inferiors and temporary disregard for differences of position or rank

   The queen's condescension was intended to make us feel comfortable.

2. 2
   noun

   The act of condescending; a manner of behaving in an outwardly polite way that nevertheless implies superiority to another; patronizing courtesy toward inferiors.

   Conscious condescension breeds panderers and enemies, not friends.

3. 3
   noun

   A patronizing attitude or behavior.

   He's a snob of the first water and views the lower orders with infinite condescension.

4. 4
   noun

   the trait of displaying arrogance by patronizing those considered inferior

From Latin condēscēnsiō.

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