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derogatory

/dəˈrɑgətɔri/
/dɪˈrɒgətri/
IPA guide

Other forms: derogatorily

Something that's derogatory is insulting or disrespectful. If you make derogatory comments, that means you say things that are unflattering, unkind, or demeaning.

Derogatory means about the same as insulting. Derogatory language is meant to hurt, and it usually does. If you feel offended or insulted by what someone says, the person probably said something derogatory. Racial, sexist, and homophobic slurs are all derogatory. Insults that mean someone is stupid or crazy are derogatory. Making a joke about someone's mother is derogatory.

Definitions of derogatory
  1. adjective
    expressive of low opinion
    derogatory comments”
    synonyms: derogative, disparaging
    uncomplimentary
    tending to (or intended to) detract or disparage
Pronunciation
US
/dəˈrɑgətɔri/
UK
/dɪˈrɒgətri/
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DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘derogatory'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
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