Emily Dickinson Lexicon

CON-DE-SCEN'SION, n.

Voluntary descent from rank, dignity or just claims; relinquishment of strict right; submission to inferiors in granting requests or performing acts which strict justice does not require. Hence, courtesy. It forbids pride and commands humility, modesty and condescension to others. – Tillotson. Raphael, amidst his tenderness, shows such a dignity and condescension in all his behavior, as are suitable to a superior nature. – Addison.