verb
deprecate
DEP-ruh-kayt/ˈdeprəkeɪt/
To express disapproval of something or discourage its use.
The man deprecates the handmade vase with a contemptuous gesture.
Etymology
To deprecate originally meant to pray something away or ask for deliverance from it. Urging that something be removed developed into urging against it or expressing disapproval.
In context
I learned from the views of social life which it developed to admire their virtues and to deprecate the vices of mankind
More examples
- Her editorial deprecates excessive spending on public ceremonies.
- The report deprecated the practice of withholding information from patients.
- They deprecate shortcuts that put workers at risk.
Forms
deprecate · deprecates · deprecated · deprecating
deprecation noun — An expression of disapproval or criticism.
deprecatory adjective — Expressing disapproval or a wish to discourage.
Similar words
- criticize
- Focuses on identifying faults rather than discouraging a practice.
- condemn
- Expresses stronger disapproval, often on moral or ethical grounds.
- discourage
- Seeks to prevent an action, sometimes without expressing disapproval.