At first glance these words appear to be defined somewhat circularly: condescending often has the word "patronizing" in its definition, and patronize is defined, in part, as “to adopt an air of condescension …

CONDESCENDING definition: showing or implying a usually patronizing descent from dignity or superiority. See examples of condescending used in a sentence.

If you are being condescending, you are looking down on someone. A 10-year-old who says to his sibling, "What do you know? You're only a 6-year-old!" is being condescending.

CONDESCENDING definition: 1. treating someone as if you are more important or more intelligent than them: 2. treating…. Learn more.

If you say that someone is condescending, you are showing your disapproval of the fact that they talk or behave in a way which shows that they think they are superior to other people.

Definition of condescending adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

condescending adjective patronizing, lordly, superior, lofty, snooty (informal), snobbish, disdainful, supercilious, toffee-nosed (slang, chiefly Brit.), on your high horse (informal) I'm fed up with your …

Jan 20, 2026 · Adjective condescending (comparative more condescending, superlative most condescending) Assuming a tone of superiority, or a patronizing attitude. Quit talking to me in that …

Jul 24, 2021 · What does the word condescending mean? According to Collins English Dictionary, Merriam-Webster and the American Heritage Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, the …

to behave as if descending from a superior position to a lower position: [no object] He wouldn't condescend, even though he clearly was my superior. [~ + to + verb] The boss will condescend to …