Word of the Day: DEROGATORY

Expressive of a low opinion

derogatory (adj) - disparaging, disrespectful or critical; tending to detract from or lessen in value [dih-rog-uh-tawr-ee]

BREAKDOWN: DE- (down) + ROG- (to propose) + -ATE (make or do) + -ORY (serving to)

• derogate means to detract or deviate from; to diminish

• derogation is the act of limiting, lessening, or removing; disparagement

• derogative means insulting or belittling

See also: prerogative

“There is nothing derogatory in any employment which ministers to the well-being of the race. It is the spirit that is carried into an employment that elevates or degrades it.” —Horace Mann