noun
demerit
dee-MAIR-it/diːˈmerɪt/
A fault counted against someone or something.
The supervisor assigns a demerit for dropping a cup beside the waste bin.
Etymology
Desmerite could refer to what someone deserved, good or bad; the negative sense prevailed, eventually yielding a penalty mark. A direct origin in Latin demeritum, 'fault,' is also possible.
In context
Han Ziyi's act of deserting his post and abandoning his teammates undoubtedly earned him a heavy demerit in the eyes of all the admissions officers.
More examples
- Students receive a demerit for arriving late to class.
- The plan's chief demerit is its high cost.
- Repeated demerits can lead to suspension.
Forms
demerit · demerits
Similar words
- drawback
- Emphasizes a practical disadvantage rather than a recorded fault.
- flaw
- Names a defect itself, not necessarily one counted against something.