denigration
|den-i-gra-tion|
C1
/ˌdɛnɪˈɡreɪʃən/
(denigrate)
unfair criticism
Etymology
Etymology Information
'denigration' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'denigrare,' where 'de-' meant 'down' and 'nigrare' meant 'to blacken.'
Historical Evolution
'denigrare' transformed into the French word 'dénigrer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'denigrate' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to blacken or defame,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'unfairly criticizing to damage reputation.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the act of unfairly criticizing someone or something to damage their reputation.
The denigration of his character was unwarranted.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40