Spanish Conversation · Level 63
76 words
Spanish word
desdén
Pronunciation
IPA/desˈðen/
Meaning
- masculine noundisdain
Example
La miró con desdén.
He looked at her with disdain.
More examples
Mostró desdén ante la propuesta.
He showed disdain toward the proposal.
Core concept
A raised chin and crossed arms of superiority.
Common phrases
mirar con desdén
look at with disdain
mostrar desdén
show disdain
Similar words
desprecio: Open contempt that views someone as beneath notice and treats them dismissively.
menosprecio: Slighting attitude that rates someone low and treats them with little regard.
desaire: Deliberate coldness or social rebuke that excludes or snubs the other person.
indiferencia: Neutral indifference characterized by lack of attention or caring.
Definition in Spanish
Actitud de desprecio y superioridad hacia alguien o algo, expresada con indiferencia, mirada desdeñosa o comentarios humillantes.
Word origin
Late Latin dedignari 'regard as unworthy' passed into Old French as desdain and then into Spanish as desdén, preserving the idea of looking down on someone.
Usage tips
- Desdén is fairly strong and judgmental in Spanish, so phrases like "mirar con desdén" often convey serious contempt rather than mild dislike.