A condescending person is someone who looks down on others and acts superior. This type of person is often referred to as a SNOB or a SNOOT. The term 'SNOB' is derived from the Latin word 'sine nobilitate, ' which means 'without nobility.' A SNOOT is a more modern term that is used to describe someone who is overly concerned with their own social status. Both terms are used to describe someone who is arrogant and haughty.