deprecate

[dep-ri-keyt] / ˈdɛp rɪˌkeɪt /

VERB

belittle, condemn

Synonyms

STRONG

depreciate derogate detract discountenance disesteem disfavor disparage expostulate frown object pooh-pooh rip

WEAK

cut down to size disapprove of discommend mudsling not go for poor-mouth protest against put down run down take dim view of take down take exception to

Antonyms

STRONG

approve commend compliment increase laud praise sanction

WEAK

build up endorse

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.

“I therefore deprecate attempts to expound Wittgenstein’s thought as a finished thing.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 18, 2025

It is easy to deprecate the single phrase inscribed atop the entrance to our courthouse by conceptualizing it as a mere platitude.

From Slate • Jun. 20, 2025

A lot of people don’t know that world, so I’m going to have to introduce myself to them and then self-deprecate enough to earn the opportunity to then deprecate them.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 2, 2025

This word is imprecise and is used universally to deprecate the person or group described.

From Washington Post • Feb. 10, 2023

I would not, however, be understood to therefore deprecate the quiet years of happiness which followed.

From The Courtship of Morrice Buckler A Romance by Mason, A. E. W. (Alfred Edward Woodley)

Vocabulary lists containing deprecate

Frankenstein

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Abraham Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address (1865)

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Grade 12, List 6

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