depreciate

UK: dɪˈpriːʃieɪt | US: dɪˈpriːʃieɪt

Definition
  1. vt. to reduce the value or price of something over time

  2. vt. to belittle or disparage someone or something

  3. vi. to decline in value or worth

Structure
de <down>preci <value>ate <verb suffix>de <down>preci <value>ate <verb suffix>
Etymology

"Depreciate" originates from Latin depretiare (to lower in value), combining de- (down) and pretium (price). The word entered English in the 15th century, initially describing monetary devaluation. By the 17th century, it gained figurative use for disparagement. The morphemes reflect a logical progression: reducing (de-) perceived worth (preci-) through action (-ate).

Examples
  1. The car began to depreciate as soon as it left the dealership.

  2. Critics often depreciate his contributions to the field.

  3. Over time, technology tends to depreciate rapidly.

  4. She felt her efforts were unfairly depreciated by her peers.

  5. The company wrote off depreciated assets in its annual report.