WordDream · Your AI dictionary

derogatory

English → EnglishformalInstant · from the shared dictionary
Illustration of "derogatory": The word "derogatory" describes language or behavior that is intended to belittle, insult, or lower

What does "derogatory" mean?

The word "derogatory" describes language or behavior that is intended to belittle, insult, or lower the reputation of someone or something. It carries a sense of disrespect and is often used to characterize slurs, harsh criticisms, or condescending remarks that diminish a person's worth. In usage, it is a formal term often used in legal, professional, or academic contexts to describe speech that is offensive or disparaging. It is frequently paired with nouns like "remark," "comment," or "language," and it serves as a more precise, clinical alternative to simply calling something "mean" or "rude."

"derogatory" in conversation

Reporting an HR issue

I need to file a complaint about Mark's behavior.

I need to file a complaint about Mark's behavior.

What exactly did he say?

What exactly did he say?

He made several derogatory comments about my background during the meeting.

He made several derogatory comments about my background during the meeting.

Used in a formal setting to describe offensive professional conduct.

Discussing a movie review

Did you read the review of the new film?

Did you read the review of the new film?

Yes, it was surprisingly derogatory toward the lead actor's performance.

Yes, it was surprisingly derogatory toward the lead actor's performance.

Used to describe a critique that goes beyond constructive feedback into personal attack.

"derogatory" in a sentence

  1. He made a derogatory remark about her appearance.

    He made a derogatory remark about her appearance.

  2. The policy was criticized for using derogatory language toward marginalized groups.

    The policy was criticized for using derogatory language toward marginalized groups.

  3. She refused to tolerate any derogatory insinuations regarding her professional integrity.

    She refused to tolerate any derogatory insinuations regarding her professional integrity.

Not another dictionary

An AI-native multilingual dictionary: decode the words other dictionaries can't handle.

WordDream explains every word the way a teacher would, with real-life scenes, graded examples, audio and a picture. It also covers what traditional dictionaries miss: names, places, proper nouns, internet slang, and words that don't translate.

And it isn't just English. Look up words in any language, keep a multilingual Notebook, and turn your saved words into stories with Spin a yarn.

Try WordDream: Look up a wordOpen “derogatory” in WordDream

Free account · sign in to use features

More everyday & curious words

Browse the whole set in Everyday & Curious Words.

Explained by WordDream, an AI-native multilingual dictionary.