Contemptible: meaning, definitions and examples

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contemptible

 

[ kənˈtɛm(p)tɪb(ə)l ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

character trait

deserving contempt; deserving to be treated with scorn or disdain

Synonyms

despicable, disgraceful, shameful

Examples of usage

  • His contemptible behavior towards his colleagues cost him his job.
  • The contemptible actions of the dictator were condemned by the international community.
Context #2 | Adjective

quality of something

of low quality; not worthy of respect or consideration

Synonyms

inferior, shoddy, substandard

Examples of usage

  • The contemptible condition of the facilities was unacceptable.
  • The contemptible service at the restaurant left a bad impression on the customers.

Translations

Translations of the word "contemptible" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desprezível

🇮🇳 तुच्छ

🇩🇪 verachtenswert

🇮🇩 hina

🇺🇦 презирливий

🇵🇱 godny pogardy

🇯🇵 軽蔑すべき

🇫🇷 méprisable

🇪🇸 despreciable

🇹🇷 aşağılık

🇰🇷 경멸할 만한

🇸🇦 حقير

🇨🇿 opovrženíhodný

🇸🇰 opovrhnutiahodný

🇨🇳 卑鄙的

🇸🇮 zaničevanja vreden

🇮🇸 fyrirlitlegur

🇰🇿 жек көрінетін

🇬🇪 საზიზღარი

🇦🇿 nifrət edilən

🇲🇽 despreciable

Etymology

The word 'contemptible' originated from the Latin word 'contemptibilis', which means 'deserving scorn'. Over time, it evolved in English to describe something or someone as deserving of contempt or scorn. The use of 'contemptible' in English literature dates back to the 15th century, where it was used to convey a strong sense of disapproval or disdain.

See also: contempt, contemptuous, contemptuously.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,461, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.