Belittle is a word that is commonly used in everyday language. It is often used to describe the act of making someone or something seem unimportant or insignificant. Belittling can be done intentionally or unintentionally, and it can have serious consequences for the person or thing being belittled. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of belittle, its origin, and its associations.
Definitions
Belittle is a verb that means to make someone or something seem less important or valuable than they actually are. It can also mean to criticize or disparage someone or something in a way that undermines their worth or importance.
Origin
The word belittle comes from the Old English word “be-litlan,” which means to make small. The word “litlan” means to make small or little, and the prefix “be-” means to cause or make something happen. Over time, the word evolved to its current meaning of making someone or something seem unimportant or insignificant.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, belittle means “to cause (a person or thing) to seem little or less.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “to make small or insignificant, to depreciate, to disparage.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “to make someone or something seem less important.”
Associations
Belittling can have serious consequences for the person or thing being belittled. It can lead to a loss of self-esteem, confidence, and respect. It can also lead to a lack of motivation and a decrease in productivity. Belittling can be a form of emotional abuse, and it can have long-lasting effects on a person’s mental health.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of belittle include:
- Disparage.
- Diminish.
- Undermine.
- Demean.
- Devalue.
- Minimize.
- Ridicule.
- Mock.
- Insult.
Antonyms
Some antonyms of belittle include:
- Appreciate.
- Value.
- Esteem.
- Respect.
- Admire.
- Praise.
- Commend.
- Honor.
- Elevate.
The same root words
Some words that have the same root as belittle include:
- Little.
- Lithe.
- Litigation.
- Littoral.
- Litter.
- Litterateur.
Example Sentences
Here are some example sentences using the word belittle:
- She belittled his achievements, saying they were nothing compared to hers.
- The coach belittled the player in front of the entire team, causing him to lose confidence.
- Don’t belittle her efforts – she’s been working hard to get where she is.
- He belittled her intelligence, making her feel small and insignificant.
- The teacher belittled the student’s question, causing him to feel embarrassed and ashamed.