contemptive

English

Etymology

From contempt +‎ -ive.

Pronunciation

• (UK, US) IPA^(key): /kənˈtɛmp.tɪv/

Adjective

contemptive (comparative more contemptive, superlative most contemptive)

1. (linguistics) Of or pertaining to, or creating a word form denoting the negative attitude of the speaker.
   • 2001, J. Randolph Valentine, Nishnaabemwin Reference Grammar:

     One of the most striking features of the vocabulary of Nishnaabemwin is the frequency that contemptive endings appear on basic (LEXICAL) noun forms, in other words, on noun stems that never occur without the contemptive suffix and which do not have salient contemptive force.

2. (rare) Contemptuous.
   • 1862, “The” Dialect of Leeds and Its Neighbourhood:

     A contemptive epithet applied to any place. “Sich a smuce!” a teetotaler would say in relating his experience of a gin-shop.

   • 1984, D. N. Gautam, What is wrong with Indian police?, page 225:

     This he tries to compensate through various means. The show of vulgar power, rude behaviour, a generally contemptive attitude are but a few of them.

Antonyms

• affectionate

Noun

contemptive (plural contemptives)

1. (linguistics) A word form expressing the negative attitude of the speaker.

Related terms

• contempt
• contemptible
• contemptuous