belittling
|be/lit/tling|
C1
/bɪˈlɪt.lɪŋ/
(belittle)
diminish importance
Etymology
Etymology Information
'belittle' originates from English, specifically the word 'be-' as a prefix meaning 'to make' and 'little' meaning 'small or insignificant'.
Historical Evolution
'belittle' was coined in the late 18th century by Thomas Jefferson.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to make something appear smaller or less important', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
present participle of 'belittle'.
He is always belittling his colleagues.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adjective 1
expressing or causing someone to feel less important or less valuable.
Her belittling comments made him feel inadequate.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40