Definition

To behave in a way that shows you think you are better or more important than others, often by talking down to them.

Example

She tends to condescend when speaking to her colleagues, making them feel inferior.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I really dislike it when people condescend to others in conversations.

Yeah, it makes everything feel so awkward and uncomfortable.

Right? It's like they think they're better than everyone else.

Totally! We should always treat each other with respect.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Condescend → It is formed from "con-" (meaning together) and "descendere" (meaning to descend). The word describes the act of lowering oneself to the level of others, implying a sense of superiority while doing so.

Memory Tip

Think of 'descending together' — 'con-' means together, and 'descendere' means to descend. This helps you remember that to condescend means to lower oneself to another's level.

Visually Confused Words