Detractor

Noun

Definition: A person who disparages, criticizes, or speaks negatively about someone or something.

Synonyms: Critic, Faultfinder, Detractor, Deprecator

Antonyms: Supporter, Admirer, Advocate

Examples:

The detractor constantly belittled the author's work.
Despite the detractor's negative comments, the movie received positive reviews from the audience.

Mnemonics:

Think of the word "detract" which means to reduce the value or importance of something. A detractor does the same by criticizing or disparaging.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "detractor" has Latin origins, derived from the Latin verb "detrahere," meaning "to disparage" or "to detract."

Historical Usage:

The term has been used in English since the late 16th century, primarily in the context of criticizing or speaking negatively about someone or something.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Throwing stones at someone"

Explanation:

This phrase implies actively and deliberately criticizing or disparaging someone. A detractor may be seen as "throwing stones" at the person or thing they are criticizing, trying to harm their reputation.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Using "detractor" interchangeably with "disagreeing opinion."

Explanation:

While someone may have a different opinion or perspective on a matter, a detractor specifically refers to a person who consistently and actively criticizes or speaks negatively about someone or something. A disagreement does not automatically make someone a detractor.