The term 'showed contempt' can be described by the crossword solutions SPAT, SNEERED, and HOOTED. SPAT is an informal verb meaning to express anger or annoyance with a short, sharp sound. SNEERED is an informal verb meaning to express contempt or derision with a facial expression or tone of voice. Lastly, HOOTED is an informal verb meaning to express contempt or derision with a loud, mocking laugh. All three words describe a form of contemptuous behavior.