Definition

The act of reducing someone's reputation or value through negative comments or criticism.

Example

His constant detraction of her work made it difficult for her to feel confident.

Conversation

I heard some people were making detraction comments about your project.

Yeah, it's frustrating how some can be so negative.

Don't let those detraction remarks get to you, though.

Thanks! I know I just need to focus on the positive feedback.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Detraction is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "tractio" (from "tractus", meaning pulling or drawing). The word refers to the act of pulling down someone's reputation or character, hence the meaning of detracting from someone.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pulling down' ('tractio') someone's reputation 'away' ('de-') — that's why detraction means to take away from someone's good name.

Visually Confused Words