Meaning of belittle in English

Table of contents
  1. Pronunciation
  2. Verb
    1. Etymology
    2. Definitions

  1. Pronunciation

    /bəˈlɪdl/

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  1. Verb

    belittle

    Etymology

    late 18th century: from be- + little; a coinage of Thomas Jefferson originally meaning ‘diminish in size, make small’

    Definitions

    1. belittle

    Examples

    • « Don't belittle his influence »

    Derived terms

  2. 2. express a negative opinion of

    Examples

    • « She disparaged her student's efforts »

    Antonyms

    Derived terms

  3. 3. lessen the authority, dignity, or reputation of

    Examples

    • « don't belittle your colleagues »

Famous quotes

  • « I hope my tongue in prune juice smothers, If I belittle dogs and mothers. »
    Ogden Nash

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