How Do You Spell CONTUMELIOUS?

Pronunciation: [kɒntjuːmˈɛlɪəs] (IPA)

The word "contumelious" is a mouthful, but once you understand its phonetic transcription, it becomes easier to spell. The IPA transcription is [kɑnˈtjuːməliəs]. The first syllable "con" is pronounced like "kah-n," the next two syllables "tu-me" are pronounced like "too-mee," and the final syllable "lious" is pronounced like "lee-us." This word, which means insolent or disrespectful, can be a tongue-twister at first, but with practice, it's a valuable addition to your vocabulary.

CONTUMELIOUS Meaning and Definition

1. Contumelious is an adjective that describes behavior or language that is insolent, scornful, or contemptuous towards others. It refers to actions or remarks that are intentionally offensive, disrespectful, and provocative in nature, often aiming to belittle or humiliate the target.

   When someone is described as contumelious, it means they display a strong and brazen disregard for social conventions or norms, with a deliberate intention to provoke outrage or create friction. Their actions may involve using derogatory language, making offensive gestures, or behaving in a disrespectful manner towards others. This behavior is marked by an arrogant and condescending attitude, demonstrating a total lack of consideration or empathy for the feelings or dignity of others.

   The term is often used to describe behavior in a legal or formal context, where someone's contumelious actions may be considered contempt of court, defying the authority or disrespecting the proceedings. It can also be used to describe someone's behavior towards superiors, peers, or subordinates in the workplace, showcasing a condescending and dismissive attitude that undermines the harmony of interpersonal relationships.

   Overall, contumelious behavior denotes intentional disrespect and arrogance, demonstrating a complete disregard for others and the impact their words or actions have on those around them.

2. Insolent; haughtily reproachful; rude and sarcastic in speech.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for CONTUMELIOUS

• contumelius
• contemelious
• contemelyous
• contumeilus
• conteumelious
• contumeleous

Etymology of CONTUMELIOUS

The word "contumelious" comes from the Latin adjective "contumeliosus", which derives from the noun "contumelia". In Latin, "contumelia" referred to an insult, humiliation, or verbal abuse directed towards someone. This term is believed to have originated from the phrase "cum (with) tumulus (force)", indicating an act that inflicts strong humiliation or disgrace. The word "contumelious" entered the English language in the late 16th century, primarily used to describe insulting or scornful behavior.

Similar spelling words for CONTUMELIOUS

• contumely,
• contumelies,
• contumaciously,
• contemptuously,
• contemplation,
• contumacious,
• condomless,
• contentious,
• contemptuous,
• contumeliously.