n.
Pronunciation: k ə n- ' tem(p)t
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin contemptus, from contemnere
Date: 14th century
1 a : the act of despising : the state of mind of one who despises : DISDAIN b : lack of respect or reverence for something
2 : the state of being despised
3 : willful disobedience to or open disrespect of a court, judge, or legislative body < contempt of court>