condescend
verb (used without object)
to behave as if one is conscious of descending from a superior position, rank, or dignity.
condescended
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past participleof condescend.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
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past tense formof condescend.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
condescendverb (used without object)to behave as if one is conscious of descending from a superior position, rank, or dignity.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
He was popular, but for a long time the critics condescended to him, calling him a lightweight Sunday painter and deriding him for his “matchstick” figures.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 31, 2025
Still, she never condescended to or attacked Trump’s supporters.
From Salon ● Sep. 18, 2024
“The consistency of the experience of going to doctor after doctor, seeking help, and being disbelieved and condescended to is really surprising to me,” Garvin said.
From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 15, 2023
She started out as a young, introverted newbie in the Foreign Service, condescended to by autocrats and bad bosses.
From New York Times ● Mar. 16, 2022
A Russian prince condescended to sit in a corner for an hour and talk with a massive lady, dressed like Hamlet’s mother in black velvet with a pearl bridle under her chin.
From "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott
