Dictionary entry

Disparagement

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Dis‐par″age‐ment (?), n. [Cf. OF. desparagement.] 1. Matching any one in marriage under his or her degree; injurious union with something of inferior excellence; a lowering in rank or estimation.

And thought that match a foul disparagement. Spenser.

2. Injurious comparison with an inferior; a depreciating or dishonoring opinion or insinuation; diminution of value; dishonor; indignity; reproach; disgrace; detraction; — commonly with to.

It ought to be no disparagement to a star that it is not the sun. South.

Imitation is a disparagement and a degradation in a Christian minister. I. Taylor.

Syn. — Indignity; derogation; detraction; reproach; dishonor; debasement; degradation; disgrace.