Definition

The quality of showing a lack of respect or contempt for someone or something.

Example

Her disdainfulness towards the rude comments was evident in her expression.

Conversation

Did you notice how she spoke with such disdainfulness during the meeting?

Yeah, it was really off-putting; I couldn't understand why she was like that.

I wonder if it's just her personality or if something happened recently.

Maybe she just feels overwhelmed; that kind of attitude isn't helpful.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Disdainfulness → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart or away) and "dais" (from Old French *deis*, meaning to look down upon) and the suffix "-fulness" (meaning the state of being full of). The word describes the state of being full of disdain or looking down upon others.

Memory Tip

Think of 'looking down upon' ('dais') and being 'apart' ('dis-') from others, which helps you remember that 'disdainfulness' means being full of disdain.

Visually Confused Words