self-deprecate
|self/dep/re/cate|
C1
/ˌsɛlfˈdɛprɪˌkeɪt/
belittle oneself
Etymology
Etymology Information
'self-deprecate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'deprecari,' where 'de-' meant 'away' and 'precari' meant 'to pray.'
Historical Evolution
'deprecari' transformed into the English word 'deprecate,' and eventually became the modern English word 'self-deprecate' by adding 'self-' to indicate the action is directed towards oneself.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to pray against or avert,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to belittle oneself.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to belittle or undervalue oneself.
He tends to self-deprecate when talking about his achievements.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41