condescend
verb (used without object)
to behave as if one is conscious of descending from a superior position, rank, or dignity.
were condescending
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past progressiveof condescend.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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.
"It's a complete reversal of the situation: for a long time, Europeans were condescending toward Chinese manufacturers, seen as mere imitators."
From Barron's ● Apr. 22, 2026
A popular film blog, “Du Sir,” said that the altered plots in the “Minions” movie, which runs a minute longer in Chinese theaters, and other films were condescending to Chinese audiences.
From New York Times ● Aug. 23, 2022
The officers were coming part way out of their overbearing, haughty seclusion, and were condescending to talk with the lower orders so as to revive their courage.
From The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse by Charlotte Brewster Jordan
The boys were condescending, but Paul scarcely observed it.
From Sons and Lovers by D. H. (David Herbert) Lawrence
The words were condescending, carelessly flung at him over Rossland's shoulder.
From The Alaskan by James Oliver Curwood
