detractor

American  

[dih-trak-ter] / dɪˈtræk tər /

noun

1. a person who tries to take away from the quality, value, or reputation of someone or something; critic.

   There were strong reactions after the film was screened in Israel, with the public divided between detractors and admirers.

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Etymology

Origin of detractor

First recorded in 1350–1400; from Latin dētractor, equivalent to dētract(us) “drawn away” + -or -or ² ( def. ); detract ( def. )

Example Sentences

She denied the disparaging accusations and in the 2013 interview said detractors believed she was a "soft target".

From BBC

It’s a staggering portrait of a woman who can’t escape her detractors or the personal trauma that triggered her vow of celibacy.

From Los Angeles Times

And if they do finally claim that elusive Premier League crown, Arsenal will believe this is the ultimate answer to their growing band of detractors.

From BBC

Though he has said France alone would decide when to strike, some detractors have warned against changes that amount to giving up control.

From The Wall Street Journal

Though we can learn much about the Fox sisters’ actions from their believers and detractors, we have little direct evidence for what Maggie or Kate truly thought or felt about their lives.

From Literature

Related Words

• critic