Contemned - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

to regard with disdain

Contemned means to have been scorned or despised, usually due to a perceived moral failing or a lack of worth. It reflects a strong negative sentiment towards someone or something.

Synonyms

belittled, despised, disdained, scorned.

Examples of usage

He felt contemned by his peers for his lack of ambition.
The judge contemned the actions of the defendant during the trial.
Her ideas were contemned by the critics as unoriginal.

Interesting Facts

Literature

In Shakespeare's works, characters often face contempt as a means to portray moral or social conflicts.
The concept of condemnation features heavily in classic novels, reflecting societal judgments and their consequences.
Many famous authors have used the term to explore themes of alienation and societal rejection.

Psychology

Being contemned can lead to feelings of low self-worth and depression, as social acceptance is a fundamental human need.
Research shows that social rejection, akin to being contemned, can activate areas of the brain associated with physical pain.
Experiencing contempt from others can significantly impact one's mental health and social relationships.

Pop Culture

In popular films and books, characters often battle against societal contempt to find acceptance and redemption.
Songs frequently express themes of feeling contemned, resonating with listeners who feel marginalized.
Social media has brought new visibility to issues of contempt, showcasing how people respond to being judged or dismissed.

Philosophy

Philosophers often debate the ethical implications of contempt, questioning the morality of judging others.
The notion of contempt can relate to discussions on virtue and integrity, exploring how societal views shape our standards.
Existentialist thinkers discuss the burdens of contempt, emphasizing the search for authenticity in a judgmental world.

Origin of 'contemned'

Main points about word origin

The word 'contemned' comes from the Latin 'contemnere', meaning to scorn or despise.
The prefix 'con-' means 'with' or 'together', while 'temnere' means 'to despise'.
It has been used in English since the 16th century, often in legal or literary contexts.

The word 'contemned' originates from Middle English and is derived from the Latin word 'contemnere', which means 'to scorn or despise'. The root 'temnere' translates to 'to slight or despise', combined with 'com-' meaning 'with' or 'together'. This etymology reflects its strong connotation of disdain. Initially, the term was used in legal contexts but later broadened to describe social and personal scorn. The transition from Latin to English saw the adaptation of the word into various forms, with 'contemned' becoming the past participle, illustrating how perceptions and language evolve over time.

Contemned Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations