Scorned Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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scorned

[skษ”rnd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

feeling rejected

To scorn means to feel or express contempt or derision for someone or something. It involves a strong sense of disdain and lack of respect. When someone is scorned, they are often treated with disdain or ridicule.

Synonyms

despise, disdain, mock, ridicule.

Examples of usage

  • She scorned his proposal outright.
  • He felt scorned by his peers.
  • The artist scorned commercial success.
  • They scorned the critics' opinions.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In Shakespeare's plays, characters often experience scorn, highlighting social rivalries and personal betrayal.
  • The idea of being scorned appears in classic literature as a powerful theme of emotional conflict, often leading to tragedy.
  • Modern novels frequently explore the psychological impact of being scorned, emphasizing characters' struggles with acceptance and self-worth.

Psychology

  • Being scorned can trigger feelings of rejection, which may lead to a decrease in self-esteem.
  • Research shows that experiencing scorn can create lasting emotional scars, affecting future relationships.
  • The fear of being scorned can lead individuals to avoid situations where they may face judgement or ridicule.

Pop Culture

  • Songs often express feelings of being scorned, resonating with listeners who have faced rejection in relationships.
  • Movies sometimes depict characters who seek revenge after being scorned, leading to dramatic plot twists.
  • Reality TV shows frequently showcase the dynamics of scorn among contestants, highlighting social interactions under pressure.

History

  • Throughout history, figures ostracized from society often faced scorn, which influenced their actions and legacies.
  • Political movements have been shaped by the scorn directed towards certain ideologies or cultural practices at different times.
  • The concept of scorn has played a critical role in the evolution of societal norms and the consequences of non-conformity.

Origin of 'scorned'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Middle English 'scorn', which meant 'to mock or treat with contempt'.
  • Its roots trace back to the Old French 'escornier', meaning 'to deride'.
  • The term has evolved over centuries to reflect varying degrees of disdain.

The word 'scorn' originates from the Old French 'escarner' meaning 'to deride'. This, in turn, comes from the Latin 'excarnare', which means 'to flesh out'. The transition into English took place in the late Middle Ages. It has often been used in literature to convey a stronger emotional response to an act or offer deemed unworthy. Over time, the meaning expanded, often encompassing a sense of moral superiority over the object of scorn, suggesting not just rejection, but a vehement dismissal of worth or value. Today, 'scorn' serves both as a noun and a verb in the English language, indicating it is deeply embedded in emotional vocabulary, especially for literary and dramatic expressions.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,122, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.