Derogatory
/dɪˈrɒɡəˌtɔːri/
Definitions
Expressing a low opinion of someone or something; tending to belittle or disparage.
/dɪˈrɒɡəˌtɔːri/
Showing a critical or disrespectful attitude
The newspaper published a derogatory article about the celebrity.
💡 Simply: It's like when you say something mean or rude about someone, trying to make them feel bad or less important. For example, calling someone a silly name is derogatory.
👶 For kids: When you say something mean or hurtful to someone.
More Examples
His derogatory comments about her work performance were uncalled for.
The teacher warned the students against making derogatory statements about each other.
How It's Used
"He made some derogatory remarks about her appearance."
"The court ruled that the evidence was derogatory to the defendant's character."
"The politician used derogatory language towards his opponent."
From Late Latin *derogatorius*, from *derogare* 'to detract, diminish' (literally, 'to take away a part'), from *de-* 'away' + *rogare* 'to ask, propose a law'.
The word 'derogatory' has been used since the 17th century to describe actions or statements that diminish someone's reputation or value. It was often used in legal and religious contexts.
Memory tip
Think of a DEROGATORY comment as something that cuts down or minimizes someone's value.