down nose

down (one's) nose

In a haughty or snobbish manner (typically because one regards oneself as superior to others). The well-dressed businessman looked down his nose at the homeless man sitting on the corner. Once Jane was promoted to management, she looked down her nose at the people who used to be her colleagues. I know you almost flunked out of med school, so don't look down your nose at me! At least I'm good at my job!

See also: down, nose

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

down (one's) nose

Informal

With disapproval, contempt, or arrogance: Year-round residents here look down their noses at the summer people.

See also: down, nose

American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright © 2016 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.