Legal Definitions - contumely

Contumely is when someone uses insulting words or actions to show disrespect or rudeness towards another person.

• When the teacher scolded the student in front of the whole class, it was an act of contumely.
• The boss's constant criticism of his employees was a form of contumely.
• When the customer yelled at the waiter for a mistake in the order, it was an example of contumely.

These examples show how contumely can be expressed through words or actions that are meant to belittle or humiliate someone else.