Langimage
English

self-deprecation

|self-dep-re-ca-tion|

B2

/ˌsɛlfˌdɛprɪˈkeɪʃən/

belittling oneself

Etymology
Etymology Information

'self-deprecation' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'deprecari,' where 'de-' meant 'away' and 'precari' meant 'to pray.'

Historical Evolution

'deprecari' transformed into the English word 'deprecate,' and eventually became the modern English word 'self-deprecation.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to pray against or avert,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'belittling oneself.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the act of belittling or undervaluing oneself.

Her self-deprecation was evident when she downplayed her achievements.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45