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Scornful - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Scornful means feeling or expressing contempt or disdain toward someone or something. It often involves a mocking or sneering attitude, showing strong disapproval or disrespect.

scornful

/ˈskɔrnfəl/ /ˈskɔːnfʊl/

Definition:

Feeling or expressing contempt or disdain toward someone or something.

Synonyms:

contemptuous, disdainful, derisive, mocking

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

admiring, respectful

Common Collocations:

scornful laugh, scornful remark, scornful attitude, scornful glance

Derivatives:

scornfully, scornfulness

Usage Tips:

Use "scornful" to describe a strong expression of contempt, often through tone or facial expressions.

Common Phrases:

look of scorn, scornful smile, full of scorn

Etymology:

From Old French "escarn," meaning mockery or derision; influenced by Middle English "scorn."

Examples:

  • 1. She gave him a scornful look when he lied.
  • 2. His scornful tone made her feel small and embarrassed.
  • 3. The critic’s review was harsh and scornful of the film’s plot.
  • 4. Her scornful laughter echoed through the quiet room after his failed joke.

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