People who are contemptuous have a greater tendency than others to look down on, derogate, or distance others whose standards or values are appalling to them.
What is a contemptuous person?
If you insult someone or dismiss them in a hateful way, you're being contemptuous. The difference between being hateful and contemptuous is subtle. It involves disdain. Being contemptuous of someone or something means that you're combining a deep dislike for them with condescension.
What are signs of contempt?
When you communicate with contempt, the results can be cruel. Treating others with disrespect and mocking them with sarcasm and condescension are forms of contempt. So are hostile humor, name-calling, mimicking, and body language such as eye-rolling and sneering.