Skip to content

Table of Contents

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 Daily Opinion Poll

The Good Oil Daily Opinion Poll

Take our Daily Opinion Poll and see how your views compare to other readers and then share the poll on social media. By sharing the poll you will help even more readers to discover The Good Oil.

Members Public
The Myth in New Zealand Education

The Myth in New Zealand Education

New Zealand’s education system is teaching children a modern ideological story as ancient truth – a story that rewrites history, embeds race-based authority and quietly undermines democratic equality.

Members Public