derogatory

[dih-rog-uh-tawr-ee, -tohr-ee] / dɪˈrɒg əˌtɔr i, -ˌtoʊr i /

ADJECTIVE

offensive, uncomplimentary

Synonyms

STRONGEST

defamatory degrading demeaning disparaging sarcastic slanderous unflattering

WEAK

aspersing belittling calumnious censorious contumelious critical damaging decrying deprecatory depreciative despiteful detracting disdainful dishonoring fault-finding humiliating injurious malevolent malicious maligning minimizing opprobrious reproachful scornful slighting spiteful unfavorable vilifying

Antonyms

STRONGEST

complimentary

WEAK

appreciative favorable flattering praising

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

That derogatory view wasn't correct then and it is even further from the truth now.

From BBC • Feb. 11, 2026

At the time, the director’s attorney Martin Singer rejected the women’s claims, saying that his client “vehemently denies the outrageous derogatory allegations that have been reported about him.”

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 2, 2026

I grew up calling it elaichi with such disdain that those unfamiliar with its English translation would’ve thought it was something utterly derogatory.

From Salon • Jan. 25, 2026

The league said it “condemns all forms of discrimination and derogatory behavior directed towards any group or individual.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 18, 2025

Although the Shangaans are a proud and noble tribe, at the time, Shangaan was considered a derogatory term.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela

Vocabulary lists containing derogatory

Of Mice and Men

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"Of Mice and Men"

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Grade 9, List 5

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