Meaning & use

dismissively

adverb·Everyday

Last updated

In a manner that shows a lack of interest or respect, as if brushing something aside.

See it in a sentence

She waved dismissively at the suggestion and moved on to the next topic.

He spoke dismissively about the risks, which worried his colleagues.

A note on using this word

Formed from "dismissive" plus "-ly"; it often describes both a verbal brush-off and an accompanying gesture, such as a wave of the hand.

Words with a similar meaning

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