CONDESCEND Synonyms: 23 Similar and Opposite Words

condescend

verb

ˌkän-di-ˈsend

Definition of condescend

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

rise

as in to patronize

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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 Others take the story’s recognition by the Commonwealth judges as evidence that the literary establishment is guilty of condescending to the Global South. — Katy Waldman, New Yorker, 10 June 2026 So this condescending takedown is actually coming from a place of love. — Dan Zaksheske Outkick, FOXNews.com, 7 June 2026 Our tone of voice is conversational, not condescending. — Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 26 May 2026 Ross described strict rules and constant shouting from guards and condescending treatment at the detention facility in Louisiana. — Jade Le Deley, Los Angeles Times, 12 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for condescend

Recent Examples of Synonyms for condescend

Verb

Audra stooped down to hug Christina, 3, who donned a fuzzy white jacket with bear-like ears on the hood.

— Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 25 June 2026
In what is likely his final World Cup, the 34-year-old scored his first international major tournament goal, stooping to nod Liverpool team-mate Ryan Gravenberch’s cross home after 50 minutes.

— Jacob Whitehead, New York Times, 14 June 2026

Definition of stoop

Browse Nearby Words

condensing

condescend

condescended

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Style

“Condescend.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/condescend. Accessed 13 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of condescend

verb

Example Sentences

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