Definition

Describing something that reduces the value or importance of something else, often in a negative or critical way.

Example

His depreciatory comments about the project made everyone feel discouraged.

Conversation

Did you hear how she made some depreciatory comments about his artwork?

Yeah, that was really unnecessary and hurtful.

I think being depreciatory like that only brings others down.

Absolutely, we should support each other instead!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Depreciatory → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "pretium" (meaning price or value) combined with the suffix "-ory" (meaning relating to). The word describes something that relates to reducing or lowering value.

Memory Tip

Think of 'de-' meaning down and 'pretium' meaning value — this helps you remember that depreciatory refers to something that lowers value.

Visually Confused Words