contumely

/ˈkɒntuməli/

Other forms: contumelies

Contumely is an old-fashioned term that means "nasty, insulting speech," like the contumely heaped on the opposing team by a home team's fans.

Don't be led astray by that -ly ending: contumely is a noun, not an adverb. Use contumely when you need an impressive (if obscure) way to say "contemptuous language" or "offensive behavior." You might stop a bully in his tracks by shouting, "I don't have to put up with this contumely!" Experts believe this word comes from the Latin contumax, "haughty or insolent."

Definitions of contumely

1. noun

   a rude expression intended to offend or hurt
   synonyms: abuse, insult, revilement, vilification

   types:

   low blow

   unscrupulous abuse

   billingsgate, scurrility

   foul-mouthed or abusive language

   cut, stinger

   a remark capable of wounding mentally

   invective, vitriol, vituperation

   abusive or venomous language used to express blame or censure or bitter deep-seated ill will

   type of:

   discourtesy, disrespect

   an expression of lack of respect