to criticize unfairly; disparage, to belittle or defame someone's character or reputation

Formal and Informal Expressions of denigrate

In different contexts, you can replace 'denigrate' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'disparage, deprecate' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'put down, trash talk' is a commonplace synonym.

denigrate: Explore its Definition & Usage

denigrate Definition

1to criticize unfairly; disparage
2to belittle or defame someone's character or reputation

Using denigrate: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "denigrate" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The article denigrated his achievements and portrayed him as a failure.
Example
She felt denigrated by the comments made about her appearance.
Example
It is not appropriate to denigrate someone based on their race or ethnicity.

denigrate Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for denigrate

Antonyms for denigrate

Phrases with denigrate

denigrate someone's name
to damage or ruin someone's reputation
Example
He was accused of denigrating his opponent's name during the election campaign.
denigrate someone's character
to criticize or speak ill of someone in a way that damages their reputation or integrity
Example
The tabloid newspaper denigrated the actress's character with false accusations and rumors.
denigrate someone's work
to criticize or belittle someone's creative or professional output
Example
The art critic denigrated the artist's work, calling it derivative and uninspired.

Origins of denigrate

from Latin 'denigratus', meaning 'blackened'

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Summary: denigrate in Brief

'Denigrate' [ˈdɛnɪɡreɪt] means to unfairly criticize or belittle someone or something. It can refer to damaging someone's reputation or character, as in 'The article denigrated his achievements and portrayed him as a failure.' 'Denigrate' is a formal term that can be replaced by 'disparage' or 'deprecate.'