n. 1 a feeling that a person or a thing is beneath consideration or worthless, or deserving scorn or extreme reproach. 2 the condition of being held in contempt. 3 (in full contempt of court) disobedience to or disrespect for a court of law and its officers. beneath contempt utterly despicable. hold in contempt despise.
[ ME f. L contemptus (as contemn) ]