February 15, 2026
condescending
/ˈkɔn.dɪ.sɛnd.ɪŋ/adjective
Talking to or treating people as if they are less intelligent or less important than you.
Example sentences
- “I hate his condescending tone when he explains simple things.”
- “She gave a condescending smile when I asked for help.”
- “Customers complained that the staff were condescending.”
Often with 'to' or 'toward': condescending to new employees. A close synonym is 'patronizing'.