Skip to content

The word for today is…

derogatory (adjective):

1: expressive of a low opinion : disparaging
2: detracting from the character or standing of something - often used with to, towards, or of

Source : Merriam -Webster

Etymology : When derogatory first began to be used in English it had the meaning “detracting from the character or standing of something.” It comes from the verb derogate, which can be traced to the Latin word derogare (“to detract” or “to annul (a law)”). Derogatory quickly took on the additional meaning “disdainful, disparaging,” as may be seen in the word’s frequent use in “derogatory comment.” Derogatory is increasingly seen today in credit reports, although it should not be taken as a credit card company making unkind comments on the character of the cardholder. In this context it refers to something (such as a late payment, foreclosure, or bankruptcy) that will have a negative effect on a person’s credit score.

If you enjoyed this Good Oil word of the day please consider sharing it with your friends and, especially, your children.

Latest

The Good Oil News Quiz

The Good Oil News Quiz

Are you an avid reader of The Good Oil? Take our News quiz to find out how much information you can recall from our articles published this week.

Members Public