Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Definitions

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.

Pinning up derogatory comments on the dressing room wall as motivation might not inspire rugby sides in the way it used to.

From BBC • Mar. 6, 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

Gauff took exception to someone in the crowd who appeared to have made a derogatory remark about Baptiste during the match.

From Barron's • Jan. 23, 2026

What freshman doesn’t have a derogatory nickname pinned to him?

From "Burning Blue" by Paul Griffin

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.