condescend
UK[ˌkɒndɪˈsend]US[ˌkɑːndɪˈsend]
v
to behave as if you are more important and more intelligent than other people, showing them a lack of respect
v
to do something in a way that shows you think it is below your social or professional position
Morpheme Breakdown
con
descend
con
with, together
descend
to climb down, lower oneself
Etymology
the word condescend originates from the late latin 'condescendere', a compound of the latin prefix 'con-' (completely, together) and 'descendere' (to go down, sink). its literal meaning was "to let oneself down" or "to come down to the level of another." this concept evolved in old french as 'condescendre', carrying the sense of voluntarily lowering oneself to interact with inferiors, which implied a gracious or kind act. however, upon entering middle english, the word's connotation shifted from a positive act of graciousness to a negative one of patronizing superiority, reflecting the perception that such lowering is done with an air of disdainful pride.
Analysis
Structure: con + descend
con- (latin origin, meaning 'with, together', an intensifying prefix); descend (latin origin, from 'descendere', meaning 'to climb down, lower oneself')
Examples
she would never condescend to speak to the junior staff at the office.
he accepted the award without condescending to thank his team.
the professor's condescending tone made the students feel foolish for asking questions.