Catholic Dictionary
Find accurate definitions of over 5,000 Catholic terms and phrases (including abbreviations). Based on Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.
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CONTUMELY
The act of unjustly dishonoring another in his presence. It corresponds to what is popularly called an insult. Contumely sins against justice and charity, for it goes against one's right to the honor and marks of respect that accord with person's character and standing. It is not merely a failure to pay due honor to a person, but a positive act of dishonor that expresses contempt. Among other forms of contumely are mimicry, lampoons, sardonic grins, caricatures, a slap in the face, and burning in effigy. Contumely is a grave sin if it does serious injury to another's honor, and restitution then is necessary. (Etym. Latin contumelia, insult, reproach, affront.)
