Contempts

/kənˈtɛmpts/ noun

Definition

Plural of contempt; multiple instances of extreme disrespect, scorn, or the legal offense of disrespecting a court.

Etymology

Plural form of 'contempt,' from Latin 'contemptus' (disdain, scorn), past participle of 'contemnere' (to despise), from 'com-' (with) and 'temnere' (to scorn).

Kelly Says

In legal contexts, 'contempts' appears frequently when courts discuss multiple violations—a lawyer might say 'multiple contempts of court,' making this a word that lives mainly in courtrooms rather than casual conversation.

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