adj
Uncommon
derogatory
dih-RO-guht-ree
Derogatory (adj) means showing a low opinion of someone or something; disrespectful and insulting. Example: “He was fired for making derogatory comments about a colleague.”
adj
1
Showing a low opinion of someone or something; disrespectful and insulting.
"He was fired for making derogatory comments about a colleague."
"The article used derogatory language about the town's residents."
How to use derogatory
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishInsulting or belittling — used to describe words or remarks that put someone down.
Common pairings
derogatory remark
derogatory term
derogatory comment
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Word forms
- Plural
- derogatories
- Comparative
- more derogatory
- Superlative
- most derogatory
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He was fired for making _____ comments about a colleague.
Etymology
From Late Latin derogatorius, related to derogare, "to lessen or detract from" — the source of derogate.
Synonyms
View more →
disparaging
derogative
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for derogatory
See all rhymes for derogatory →Frequently asked questions
What does “derogatory” mean?
The word “derogatory” means showing a low opinion of someone or something; disrespectful and insulting. In plain terms, insulting or belittling — used to describe words or remarks that put someone down.
How do you pronounce “derogatory”?
“Derogatory” is pronounced dih-RO-guht-ree (/dɪˈɹɑɡəˌtɔɹi/ in IPA).
How do you use “derogatory” in a sentence?
Here is “derogatory” used in a sentence: “He was fired for making derogatory comments about a colleague.”
What is the opposite of “derogatory”?
The opposite of “derogatory” — its antonyms — are honorific and laudatory.
What part of speech is “derogatory”?
“Derogatory” is an adjective.
Where does the word “derogatory” come from?
The word “derogatory” comes from Late Latin. From Late Latin derogatorius, related to derogare, "to lessen or detract from" — the source of derogate.
Is “derogatory” a common word?
“Derogatory” is an uncommon word in modern English.
