Scorn Definition & Meaning | Britannica Dictionary (original) (raw)

Britannica Dictionary definition of SCORN

[noncount]

1

:

a feeling that someone or something is not worthy of any respect or approval

• I have nothing but scorn [=_contempt_] for people who are cruel to animals.
• They treated his suggestion with scorn.
• an expression full of scorn

2

:

harsh criticism that shows a lack of respect or approval for someone or something

• Her political rivals have poured/heaped scorn on her ideas for improving the tax system.

Britannica Dictionary definition of SCORN

[+ object]

1

:

to show that you think (someone or something) is not worthy of respect or approval

:

to feel or express scorn for (someone or something)

• He scorns anyone who earns less money than he does.
• Her actions were scorned by many people.
• They were scorned as fanatics.

2

formal

:

to refuse or reject (someone or something that you do not think is worthy of respect or approval)

• She scorned his invitation.

— sometimes followed by to + verb

• He scorned to reply to their accusations.