contemn
Americanverb (used with object)
verb
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of contemn
1375–1425; late Middle English contempnen (< Middle French ) < Latin contemnere to despise, scorn, equivalent to con- con- + temnere to slight; see contempt
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.
"Did not William Blake contemn reason and paint the ghost of a flea?"
From Time Magazine Archive
One does not contemn Calne on account of its misfortunes, but it must always have been a slipshod place.
From The Bath Road History, Fashion, & Frivolity on an Old Highway by Charles G. (Charles George) Harper
I hope not; for then those who contemn it must do the same by the vaunted Rose, and the rich Carnation; for where do they blow better than in the daisy-bordered flower-beds of the poor?
From Mirror of the Months by Peter George Patmore
Perhaps it was due to perseverance having been rewarded and to having gained a lodging that, hungry though they were, they began to contemn their supply of bread.
From George Alfred Henty The Story of an Active Life by George Manville Fenn
Of course there is no harm in that, Especially As you get the ha'pennies, And far be it from me To contemn you for it.
From Outlook Odes by T. W. H. (Thomas William Hodgson) Crosland
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