scornful
UK: ˈskɔːn.fəl | US: ˈskɔːrn.fəl
adj. feeling or expressing contempt or disdain
adj. characterized by scorn; mocking
The word "scornful" combines "scorn," which traces back to Old French and Germanic roots conveying mockery or disdain, with the suffix "-ful," indicating abundance or possession of a quality. The fusion creates an adjective describing someone who is full of scorn—expressing contempt or derision. This evolution reflects how English often builds descriptive terms by attaching suffixes to existing nouns or verbs.
She gave him a scornful look after his rude remark.
His scornful laughter made her feel humiliated.
The critic’s scornful review discouraged the young artist.
They exchanged scornful comments about the outdated policy.
Her tone was scornful when she spoke of his excuses.