patronizing

[ pey-truh-nahy-zing, pa- ]

adjective

1. displaying or indicative of an offensively condescending manner:

   a patronizing greeting, accompanied by a gentle pat on the back.

patronizing

/ ˈpætrəˌnaɪzɪŋ /

adjective

1. having a superior manner; condescending

Derived Forms

• ˈpatronˌizingly, adverb

Other Words From

• patron·izing·ly adverb
• non·patron·izing adjective
• quasi-patron·izing adjective
• quasi-patron·izing·ly adverb
• un·patron·izing adjective
• un·patron·izing·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of patronizing¹

First recorded in 1720–30; patronize + -ing ²

Example Sentences

It is loathed by some critics who find it patronizing, silly, and superficial.

From The Daily Beast

Many commenters found her essay less empowering and more patronizing.

From The Daily Beast

Among the explorers, a state of mind developed that was patronizing and paternalistic.

From The Daily Beast

We will gladly continue patronizing those stores, but will not be taking our rifles.

From The Daily Beast

Or they might stop patronizing Starbucks and start patronizing a hipster java upstart like Stumptown.

From The Daily Beast

Hence we find them frequently patronizing "mediums" and fortune tellers of various kinds.

From Project Gutenberg

His merit was his patriotism, and his patronizing such men as Burke, and bringing them into influence.

From Project Gutenberg

Even masters entering through the swinging doors seemed glad to pass beyond the range of the heroes' patronizing contemplation.

From Project Gutenberg

She was getting impatient of their patronizing laughter, as if she were a child.

From Project Gutenberg

To him, despite his well-exploited and patronizing devotion to them, the lower animals are disgustingly low.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• arrogant
• pretentious
• snobbish