Definition of condescendnext
1
as in to stoop
to descend to a level that is beneath one's dignity I will not condescend to answer the sore loser's charge that I cheated in order to win the race

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2
as in to patronize
to assume or treat with an air of superiority wealthy people who tend to be condescending toward their poor relations

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of condescend The person who blows up at a subordinate under stress has usually been subtly condescending in one-on-ones for months. — Mary Crossan, Forbes.com, 17 Aug. 2026 Even her more complimentary remarks are pointedly condescending. — ArsTechnica, 1 Aug. 2026 On top of this, his tone is condescending by suggesting that any claim for material recompense by Black people can only come from a Black nationalist and bourgeois initiative. — Literary Hub, 27 July 2026 Glassman has a reputation for being nasty and condescending to residents who disagree with him. — Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 16 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for condescend
Recent Examples of Synonyms for condescend
Verb
  • Gordon stooped to head in Jarell Quansah's right-wing cross and Saka side-footed in England's fourth approaching halftime.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 3 Oct. 2026
  • In July alone, 21 groups, including the Los Angeles Police Department, stooped using Flock or began the process of doing so.
    — The Week US, TheWeek, 8 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • This approach also worked for babies, who need not be patronized, Addyman added.
    — Oscar Holland, CNN Money, 17 Oct. 2026
  • Paying ample taxes in the process and contributing to our city’s hubbub and patronizing our business community?
    — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 1 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Condescend.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/condescend. Accessed 28 Oct. 2026.

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