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contemptuous

adjective/kənˈtɛmptʃuəs/

definition

showing or expressing disdain or scorn

example

She gave a contemptuous sneer when he suggested that she needed help with her project.

synonyms
scornfuldisdainfulderisive
word origin — Originating from the Latin word 'contemptuosus', which means 'full of contempt', from 'contemptus', meaning 'scorn, disdain'.

SAT Vocabulary Level 3 — Set 95

Set 95 of SAT Vocabulary Level 3 covers 5 words: contemptuous, uncanny, axiomatic, mellifluous, dulcet. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. contemptuous · adjective/kənˈtɛmptʃuəs/

    showing or expressing disdain or scorn

    She gave a contemptuous sneer when he suggested that she needed help with her project.

    Synonyms: scornful, disdainful, derisive

    Origin: Originating from the Latin word 'contemptuosus', which means 'full of contempt', from 'contemptus', meaning 'scorn, disdain'.

  2. uncanny · adjective/ʌnˈkæni/

    strangely unsettling or eerie in a way that is difficult to explain

    The uncanny resemblance between the two paintings made visitors feel as though they were looking at the same artwork from a different time.

    Synonyms: eerie, strange, unsettling

    Origin: From the Scots word 'uncanny', which combines 'un-' (not) and 'canny' (knowing, shrewd; later evolved to mean strange or mysterious)

  3. axiomatic · adjective/ˌæksɪˈmætɪk/

    self-evident or unquestionable

    It is axiomatic that honesty is the best policy in any relationship.

    Synonyms: self-evident, unquestionable, obvious

    Origin: from late Latin 'axiomaticus', from Greek 'axiōmatikos', from 'axioō' meaning 'to make worthy, to value'

  4. mellifluous · adjective/məˈlɪf.lu.əs/

    having a smooth and pleasing sound

    The singer's mellifluous voice captivated the entire audience during the concert.

    Synonyms: melodious, harmonious, dulcet

    Origin: The word 'mellifluous' comes from the Latin 'mellifluus', which means 'honeyed' (from 'mel' meaning 'honey' and 'fluere' meaning 'to flow').

  5. dulcet · adjective/ˈdʌlsɪt/

    sweet and soothing to the ear

    The dulcet tones of the piano filled the room, creating a peaceful atmosphere that everyone enjoyed.

    Synonyms: melodious, harmonious, sweet-sounding

    Origin: Middle English, from Old French 'dulcet', from Latin 'dulcis' meaning 'sweet'.