# disdain

/dɪsˈdeɪn/ (US) · /dɪsdˈeɪn/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/disdain
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

the feeling that someone or something does not deserve your respect. You feel this when you think something is low-quality or not worth your time.

For teachers: a feeling of contempt or lack of respect for someone or something regarded as unworthy or inferior.

## Examples

- She looked at the messy room with disdain.
- The experienced chef treated the frozen ingredients with visible disdain, insisting on fresh produce for every dish.
- His open disdain for the local customs made it difficult for him to build the trust necessary for a successful diplomatic mission.

## Usage notes

- Often paired with the preposition 'for' ('disdain for something').

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.