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condescending

/ˈkɔn.dɪ.sɛnd.ɪŋ/verb

To lower yourself from a higher position or status and agree to do something you consider beneath you.

Example sentence

  • Condescending to answer the beginners' questions, the professor stayed an extra hour.

Far more familiar as an adjective describing someone who talks down to people: a condescending tone or smile.

Featured as word of the day on February 15, 2026.

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