contempt

Pronunciation: /kənˈtempt/ (American English)

Origin: From Latin "contemptus," meaning "scorn," derived from the verb "contemnere" (to despise)

Part of Speech: noun

Meanings:

1. The feeling that someone or something is worthless or beneath consideration
2. Disregard for something that should be considered
3. The offense of being disobedient to or disrespectful of a court of law and its officers

Example Sentences:

1. She looked at him with utter contempt for his dishonest behavior.
2. The politician's contempt for the media was evident in his dismissive remarks.
3. The witness was charged with contempt of court for refusing to answer questions.

Related Words:

• Verb: contemn
• Adjective: contemptuous, contemptible
• Adverb: contemptuously
• Synonyms: disdain, scorn, derision, disregard

Memorization Trick: Think of "con" (against) + "tempt" (to tempt or attract). Contempt is feeling strongly against someone or something, the opposite of being tempted or attracted to it.