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contempt

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contempt

Main Entry:: con·tempt
Pronunciation:: \kən-ˈtem(p)t\
Function:: noun
Etymology:: Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin contemptus, from contemnere
Date:: 14th century

1 a: the act of despising : the state of mind of one who despises : disdain b: lack of respect or reverence for something2: the state of being despised3: willful disobedience to or open disrespect of a court, judge, or legislative body <contempt of court>

Learn more about "contempt" and related topics at Britannica.com

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