The quality or state of showing open disrespect and scorn toward someone or something.
From contemptuous + -ness (noun suffix denoting a quality or state). The root contempt traces back through Middle English to Latin contemptus.
This is the noun form that lets you talk about the attitude itself rather than just the action—it's the personality trait of someone who can't help but look down on others. Medieval philosophers actually used Latin versions of this word to describe a cardinal vice.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.