Carries a critical tone; suggests looking at someone as if they're inferior. She looked down her nose at the amateurish painting.
Pro Tip 2/3
Visual Imagery
Imagine someone physically tilting their head up, nose in the air, as a sign of rejection. At the staff meeting, he looked down his nose at every suggestion.
Pro Tip 3/3
Social Context
Often used in situations where one's social status or sophistication is compared. He looks down his nose at fast food restaurants.