What word describes treating someone with haughty contempt?

The term that best describes treating someone with haughty contempt is "disdain." Disdain encapsulates a feeling of superiority and scorn toward someone, reflecting an attitude that suggests the person or their actions are unworthy of respect. When someone treats another individual with disdain, they may look down on them or dismiss their opinions and feelings as insignificant, which aligns perfectly with the notion of haughty contempt.

The other words do not convey this particular sentiment. "Discern" refers to the act of perceiving or recognizing something, which lacks any connotation of contempt. "Distraught" denotes a state of being deeply upset or agitated, failing to connect with the theme of contemptuous treatment. "Dismal" describes something bleak or dreary, which does not relate to feelings of contempt or superiority. Therefore, "disdain" is the most appropriate choice as it directly aligns with the definition of treating someone with haughty contempt.