Synonyms

look down on

Idioms

Also, look down one's nose at. Regard with contempt or condescension, consider oneself superior to. For example, When it comes to baking, Beth is a purist—she looks down on anyone who uses a mix, or Seniors have a way of looking down their noses at juniors. The first expression dates from about 1700, the second from about 1900.

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.

Why do wealthy retirees look down on others?

From MarketWatch • May 15, 2026

Do you look down on huge planes and boats and Beyoncé birthday parties?

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 6, 2025

It's likely that you have not heard of Taiwan's Hong Fu Industrial Group, but look down on a busy street and you may well see its products.

From BBC • Apr. 7, 2025

The main tone of the videos is whiny, as the hosts complain endlessly that career federal employees look down on them.

From Salon • Jan. 31, 2025

It had not occurred to Mrs. Frisby until now that a bird, flying freely over miles of countryside, would look down on many gardens.

From "Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH" by Robert C. O'Brien

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023