dismissive

[dis-mis-iv]

adjective

1. indicating dismissal or rejection; having the purpose or effect of dismissing, as from one's presence or from consideration.

   a curt, dismissive gesture.

2. indicating lack of interest or approbation; scornful; disdainful.

Other Word Forms

• dismissively adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of dismissive¹

First recorded in 1635–45; dismiss + -ive

Example Sentences

The proposed revisions included a change of name for the main character, sometimes called “Aunt Phoenix” by a dismissive nurse, to “Mrs. Jackson.”

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When Neal and Samara asked him about it, he sounded almost dismissive.

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Autumn waves off my complaint with a dismissive hand motion.

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The titters would feel dismissive, except that they also fit the tone’s grand-scale terror.

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“It’s just a game,” he said, sounding dismissive.

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Related Words

• aloof 
• arrogant 
• averse 
• contemptuous 
• derisive 
• haughty 
• unsympathetic