belittle

verb

bi-ˈli-tᵊl How to pronounce belittle (audio)
Definition of belittlenext
as in to dismiss
to express scornfully one's low opinion of belittled the action star's acting ability

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb belittle contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of belittle are decry, depreciate, and disparage. While all these words mean "to express a low opinion of," belittle usually suggests a contemptuous or envious attitude.

belittled the achievements of others

In what contexts can decry take the place of belittle?

The words decry and belittle are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, decry implies open condemnation with intent to discredit.

decried their defeatist attitude

Where would depreciate be a reasonable alternative to belittle?

Although the words depreciate and belittle have much in common, depreciate implies a representing as being of less value than commonly believed.

critics depreciate his plays for being unabashedly sentimental

When could disparage be used to replace belittle?

While the synonyms disparage and belittle are close in meaning, disparage implies depreciation by indirect means such as slighting or invidious comparison.

disparaged polo as a game for the rich

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of belittle The remark was meant to be an insult, belittling a company that seemed to care more about hardware profit margins than design and innovation. — Janko Roettgers, The Verge, 28 May 2026 Those who spent time around the couple claimed that Weaver would belittle Mary Kay and her children, causing a rift, per Gavenas' book. — Angela Andaloro, PEOPLE, 13 May 2026 Tanya Reynolds offers a broader glimpse of Caroline Bingley, a character who often belittles Mary. — Emily Zemler, Los Angeles Times, 30 Apr. 2026 The Babylon Bee posted a satirical video suggesting that if a female president was mercurial — launching foreign wars, trade wars and petty feuds — and focusing on gewgaws and shoes, she’d be endlessly belittled. — Maureen Dowd, Mercury News, 23 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for belittle
Recent Examples of Synonyms for belittle
  1. dismiss
  2. minimize
  3. diminish
  4. disparage
  5. denigrate
  6. criticize
Verb
  • In April, the Superior Court dismissed the three citations Hubbard received in May 2025 when no park ranger or city attorney appeared for the prosecution, his lawsuit states.
    — Alex Wigglesworth, Los Angeles Times, 2 July 2026
  • Freeney did not dismiss the business side of the arrangement.
    — Jackson Thompson, FOXNews.com, 1 July 2026
Definition of dismiss
Verb
  • To minimize risks during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) advises incorporating frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
    — NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 4 July 2026
  • Keep all windows and doors closed so your pet cannot easily escape, and draw the shades to minimize the sound and flashes of light.
    — Saman Shafiq, USA Today, 3 July 2026
Definition of minimize
Verb
  • Give ample space to large vehicles - Trucks or buses can create a water spray that diminishes visibility.
    — NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 6 July 2026
  • The union said that unresolved complaints made against Hawk and existing climate issues have significantly diminished confidence among many educators.
    — Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 6 July 2026
Definition of diminish
Verb
  • With that, the government cannot make disparaging comments about him, either.
    — Sofi Zeman July 2, Kansas City Star, 3 July 2026
  • After two South Korean journalists were recorded making disparaging comments about Son’s military service, the squad briefly refused to speak to their local media.
    — Tomás Hill López-Menchero, New York Times, 29 June 2026
Definition of disparage
Verb
  • All of which might seem denigrating to Frida Kahlo the artist.
    — Jonathon Keats, Forbes.com, 29 June 2026
  • By denigrating the foundation of our democracy, Trump is willfully eroding it.
    — Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 25 June 2026
Definition of denigrate
Verb
  • For all her talk of women as allies, Siebel Newsom portrays conservative women who criticize other women as dupes manipulated by MAGA leaders.
    — Jenny Jarvie Follow, Los Angeles Times, 7 July 2026
  • Last month, his ally Uthmeier declined to criticize the state party’s decision to limit the debate.
    — Romy Ellenbogen Herald, Miami Herald, 6 July 2026
Definition of criticize

Browse Nearby Words

believing
belittle
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Cite this Entry

“Belittle.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/belittle. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on belittle

Nglish: Translation of belittle for Spanish Speakers

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