Belittle
Verb
Definition: To dismiss or make someone or something appear unimportant or of little value or significance.
Synonyms: Scorn, Underestimate, Diminish, Minimize
Antonyms: Praise, Commend, Elevate, Highlight
- He constantly belittles his colleagues' achievements.
- The teacher belittled her student's efforts, discouraging them from further improvement.
- "Belittle" sounds like "be little", implying making someone or something seem small or insignificant.
- Think of a bully who belittles others to make them feel inadequate.
Etymology:
The word "belittle" originated from the combination of the prefix "be-" (meaning "to make" or "cause to be") and the word "little" (meaning small or unimportant).
Historical Usage:The term "belittle" has been used in English since the early 18th century to describe the act of diminishing or underestimating someone or something.
Related Idioms:
"Belittle oneself"
Explanation:This phrase refers to the act of diminishing or deprecating oneself, usually by downplaying one's achievements or worth.
Misconceptions:
Confusing belittling with teasing or joking.
Explanation:Belittling involves intentionally undermining someone or something's worth or importance, while teasing or joking usually carries a light-hearted or playful tone.