Contumelious

Characterized by insolent rudeness, arrogance, or contemptuous behavior; exhibiting a deliberate and insulting lack of respect. This word describes actions or speech that are intended to demean or humiliate another person. It signifies a deliberate choice to inflict emotional pain through scornful language or actions. The behavior often stems from a feeling of superiority or a desire to assert dominance, leaving the recipient feeling belittled and wounded.

Contumelious meaning with examples

• The politician's contumelious remarks about his opponent's personal life sparked outrage, demonstrating a blatant disregard for civility and ethical debate. His words were crafted to wound, not to persuade, showcasing a malicious intent to destroy his rival's reputation and to discredit him with the voting public. The aggressive style drew condemnation.
• Despite offering assistance, the condescending professor treated her students with contumelious disdain, constantly pointing out their failures and mocking their efforts. Her demeaning words and harsh criticisms created an atmosphere of fear, discouraging questions and inhibiting true learning. It was designed to show her superiority.
• The bully's contumelious taunts at the newcomer in the schoolyard targeted the boy's insecurities, deliberately amplifying his vulnerability and isolating him. The insults were crafted to make the boy feel small, worthless, and an outcast. The bully's cruel intentions were plainly obvious. The schoolyard watched in silence.
• Her contumelious refusal to acknowledge any opposing viewpoints during the debate created an air of hostility and demonstrated a profound lack of respect for the opposing side. She dismissed every argument with disdain and scorn, showing arrogance and a closed mind. Her behavior was rude and disrespectful to the audience as well.