condescension

/ˌkɑndəˈsɛnʃən/

Other forms: condescensions

Condescension is an insulting way of talking to other people, as if they were stupid or ignorant. Condescension is rude and patronizing.

Treating someone with condescension is the opposite of treating them with respect. Condescension is full of arrogant and snooty attitude, and people who practice condescension treat others like inferior idiots. Sarcasm goes well with condescension if you're trying to be a jerk. You can almost hear the word descent in condescension, so think of someone acting all high and mighty, looking down at everyone else.

Definitions of condescension

1. noun

   the trait of displaying arrogance by patronizing those considered inferior
   synonyms: disdainfulness, superciliousness

   type of:

   arrogance, haughtiness, hauteur, high-handedness, lordliness

   overbearing pride evidenced by a superior manner toward inferiors
2. noun

   a communication that indicates lack of respect by patronizing the recipient
   synonyms: disdain, patronage

   type of:

   depreciation, derogation, disparagement

   a communication that belittles somebody or something
3. noun

   affability to your inferiors and temporary disregard for differences of position or rank
   “the queen's condescension was intended to make us feel comfortable”

   synonyms: condescendingness

   type of:

   affability, affableness, amiability, amiableness, bonhomie, geniality

   a disposition to be friendly and approachable (easy to talk to)