disparage

[dih-spar-ij]

verb (used with object)

disparaged, disparaging 

1. to speak of or treat slightingly; depreciate; belittle.

   Do not disparage good manners.

   Synonyms: derogate, denounce, demean, mock, discredit, ridicule

2. to bring reproach or discredit upon; lower the estimation of.

   Your behavior will disparage the whole family.

disparage

/ dɪˈspærɪdʒ /

verb

1. to speak contemptuously of; belittle

2. to damage the reputation of

Other Word Forms

• disparager noun
• undisparaged adjective
• disparagingly adverb
• disparaging adjective
• disparagement noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of disparage¹

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English, from Anglo-French, Old French desparag(i)er “to match unequally,” from des- dis- ¹ + -parag(i)er, verb derivative of parage “equal rank,” also “high birth, noble descent” ( peerage )

Word History and Origins

Origin of disparage¹

C14: from Old French desparagier, from des- _dis- ¹ + parage equality, from Latin par equal

Example Sentences

“Racist disparaging comments about any child in our Long Beach schools should never be tolerated,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times

“To date, Ray J has not retracted his knowingly false and disparaging statement,” the lawsuit says.

From Los Angeles Times

ANL's lawyers have staunchly denied the allegations, previously calling the case "without foundation" and an "affront" to hard-working journalists whose reputations had been disparaged.

From BBC

The case against Landa-Rodriguez and four other Mexican Mafia members was roiled when it emerged that Rocha had secretly recorded himself disparaging his government handlers.

From Los Angeles Times

Those disparaging words tumbled out of the mouths of several former Rangers players inside Ibrox on Thursday after the Europa League defeat by Genk - a fourth in their past seven games under Russell Martin.

From BBC

Related Words

• belittle 
• decry 
• defame 
• degrade 
• denigrate 
• deride 
• discredit 
• dismiss 
• malign 
• ridicule 
• scorn 
• slander 
• underrate 
• vilify