derogatory
UK: dɪˈrɒɡ.ə.tər.i | US: dɪˈrɑː.ɡə.tɔːr.i
adj. expressing a low opinion of someone or something; disparaging or disrespectful.
derogatory = de<down, away> + rog<ask, propose> + atory<adjective suffix>
- de (Latin origin): Prefix meaning "down" or "away," often indicating reversal or removal.
- rog (Latin rogare): Root meaning "to ask" or "to propose," seen in words like interrogate or prerogative.
- atory (Latin -atorius): Adjective-forming suffix indicating a tendency or relation.
Etymology Origin:
Derived from Latin derogare ("to detract, diminish"), combining de- (away) + rogare (to ask). Originally used in legal contexts to mean "repealing part of a law," it evolved to imply belittling or disparaging speech by the 16th century. The shift reflects the idea of "taking away" someone's dignity through words.
His derogatory remarks about her work offended the entire team.
The article contained several derogatory statements about the community.
Using derogatory language in professional settings is unacceptable.
She ignored the derogatory comments and focused on her goals.
The term was once neutral but has since acquired a derogatory connotation.