[syn: condescension, condescendingness]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Condescension \Con`de*scen"sion\, n. [L. condescensio.]
The act of condescending; voluntary descent from one's rank
or dignity in intercourse with an inferior; courtesy toward
inferiors.
[1913 Webster]
It forbids pride . . . and commands humility, modesty,
and condescension to others. --Tillotson.
[1913 Webster]
Such a dignity and condescension . . . as are suitable
to a superior nature. --Addison.
Syn: Complaisance; courtesy; affability.
[1913 Webster]
WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006):
condescension
n 1: the trait of displaying arrogance by patronizing those
considered inferior [syn: condescension,
superciliousness, disdainfulness]
2: a communication that indicates lack of respect by patronizing
the recipient [syn: condescension, disdain, patronage]
3: affability to your inferiors and temporary disregard for
differences of position or rank; "the queen's condescension
was intended to make us feel comfortable" [syn:
condescension, condescendingness]
Moby Thesaurus II by Grady Ward, 1.0:
31 Moby Thesaurus words for "condescension":
Olympian detachment, Olympian loftiness, arrogance, arrogantness,
assumption of superiority, condescendence, deigning, domineering,
domineeringness, haughtiness, haughty airs, hauteur, high horse,
hoity-toitiness, hoity-toity, loftiness, overbearing pride,
overbearingness, overweening pride, patronization, patronizing,
patronizing attitude, pride, proudness, purse-pride, side,
stiff-necked pride, superbia, toploftiness, uppishness,
uppityness