self-deprecating

American  

[self-dep-ri-key-ting, self-] / ˌsɛlfˈdɛp rɪˌkeɪ tɪŋ, ˌsɛlf- /

Also self-deprecatory

adjective

1. belittling or undervaluing oneself; excessively modest.

---

self-deprecating British  

adjective

1. having a tendency to disparage oneself

---

Other Word Forms

• self-deprecatingly adverb
• self-deprecation noun

Explanation

A self-deprecating person knows her own weaknesses and shortcomings and isn't afraid to point them out, often in a humorous way. Some people are egotistical, always talking about how great they are. The opposite type of person is self-deprecating, dwelling on his own faults and even joking about how he's short, unsuccessful, or not that smart. Being self-deprecating is usually considered a good trait, a quality of someone with a wry sense of humor. When being self-deprecating goes too far, it can become self-loathing and self-sabotaging, which are less amusing forms of putting yourself down.

Example Sentences

His midround chats with Jennings have revealed a self-deprecating wit and interests so quirky they’re cool—chasing eclipses, writing in italics, driving around with his trivia friends looking for a rare goose.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 21, 2026

“We talked about our parties in self-deprecating ways. I thought, If we call out the bullshit of everybody on everybody’s side and have a real conversation, this could be interesting,” she said.

From Slate • Apr. 21, 2026

Back then, debate over Geriatric Millennials sparked self-deprecating jokes, think pieces and quizzes dictating if you're meant to pile on the ribbing or be subjected to it.

From BBC • Jan. 17, 2026

She said Gripp’s charm and self-deprecating demeanor also helped fuel his success.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 9, 2026

That’s when the self-deprecating voice in my head kicked in.

From "Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children" by Ransom Riggs