Meaning & Definition of word "Denigrate"
to
Denigrate
/ˈdɛnɪˌɡreɪt/
verb:
- 1. To criticize unfairly; to disparage.
- Example: The editor's decision to denigrate the author’s work was met with outrage from her supporters.
- 2. To belittle or speak ill of someone or something.
- Example: It's not fair to denigrate her achievements just because you are envious of her success.
- 3. To deny the importance or value of someone or something.
- Example: He tends to denigrate the contributions of others, focusing only on his own efforts.
Etymology
From Latin 'denigratus', the past participle of 'denigrare', meaning 'to blacken'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
denigrate someone's efforts:
To belittle or criticize the efforts someone has made.
denigrate a reputation:
To harm or damage someone's reputation through negative comments.
Related Words
belittle:
To make someone or something seem less impressive or important.
disparage:
To regard or represent as being of little worth.
Slang Meanings of denigrate
Meaning: Throw shade
Example Sentence: She really threw shade at him during the meeting.
Meaning: Diss
Example Sentence: He didn't just ignore my idea; he totally dissed it.