King James Bible Dictionary

CONDESCEND, verb intransitive [Latin See Descend.]

1. To descend from the privileges of superior rank or dignity, to do some act to an inferior, which strict justice or the ordinary rules of civility do not require. Hence, to submit or yield, as to an inferior, implying an occasional relinquishment of distinction.

Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Romans 12:16.

2. To recede from ones rights in negotiation, or common intercourse, to do some act, which strict justice does not require.

Spains mighty monarch, in gracious clemency does condescend on these conditions, to become your friend.

3. To stoop or descend; to yield; to submit; implying a relinquishment of rank, or dignity of character, and sometimes a sinking into debasement.

Can they think me so broken, so debased, with corporal servitude, that my mind ever will condescend to such absurd commands?

CONDESCENDENCE, noun A voluntary yielding or submission to an inferior.

You will observe [in the Turks] an insulting condescendence which bespeaks their contempt of you.

CONDESCENDING, participle present tense

1. Descending from rank or distinction in the intercourse of life; receding from rights or claims; yielding.

2. Yielding to inferiors; courteous; obliging.

CONDESCENDINGLY, adverb By way of yielding to inferiors; with voluntary submission; by way of kind concession; courteously.