Treating someone in a way that shows you think you're superior or talking down to them as if they're not smart enough to understand.
From Latin 'patronus' (protector or father figure), via the verb 'patronize.' The negative meaning developed because patrons historically held power over those they 'helped.'
The word perfectly captures how power dynamics hide in kindness—a patron *helps* you, but from a position of superiority, which is why patronizing someone feels insulting even when they're technically being nice to you.
Derives from 'patron' (male authority); the behavioral pattern became gendered specifically as men speaking down to women in professional and domestic contexts. Historically normalized as masculine protective behavior, now recognized as disrespectful.
Use 'condescending,' 'dismissive,' or 'disrespectful' for clarity. Recognize that patronizing speech is directed across all genders but has historically been weaponized against women in positions of authority.
["condescending","dismissive","disrespectful","talking down to"]
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