contumely Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun a rude expression intended to offend or hurt
revilement; abuse; vilification; insult.
- when a student made a stupid mistake he spared them no abuse
- they yelled insults at the visiting team

L. contumelia, prob. akin to contemnere to despise: cf. OF. contumelie. Cf. Contumacy.

Rudeness compounded of haughtiness and contempt; scornful insolence; despiteful treatment; disdain; contemptuousness in act or speech; disgrace.
The oppressor's wrong, the proud man's contumely. Shak.

Nothing aggravates tyranny so much as contumely. Burke.