detractor

[ dih-trak-ter ]

noun

1. a person who tries to take away from the quality, value, or reputation of someone or something; critic:

   There were strong reactions after the film was screened in Israel, with the public divided between detractors and admirers.

Word History and Origins

Origin of detractor¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; from Latin dētractor, equivalent to dētract(us) “drawn away” + -or -or ²( def ); detract ( def )

Example Sentences

A California bill requiring oil companies to set aside funds for the capping of old wells may have an unlikely detractor: Gov. Gavin Newsom.

From Los Angeles Times

But Gross’ decision had at least one detractor — another contributor to the book.

From Seattle Times

Apple CEO Tim Cook has been a vocal detractor of the privacy practices at Meta, which relies on user data to sell ads.

From Seattle Times

Now, even LIV’s biggest detractor at the outset, four-time major champion Rory McIlroy, has suggested the Ryder Cup gatekeepers consider easing their stance against LIV players competing for Europe.

From Washington Times

It wasn’t immediately clear if he was a supporter or detractor of the Satanic Temple.

From Washington Times

Related Words

• critic