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Synonyms

disparagingly

American  
[dih-spar-i-jing-lee] / dɪˈspær ɪ dʒɪŋ li /

adverb

  1. in a way that belittles or insults someone or something; disdainfully.

    Neither parent should speak disparagingly of the other parent to the children or in their hearing.

Etymology

Origin of disparagingly

First recorded in 1700–10; disparaging ( def. ) + -ly ( def. )

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

One record exec at the time disparagingly called it a “rock version of a corporate merger.”

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 14, 2025

As many have noted disparagingly, Netflix’s recent extension of the Sussexes’ deal is still a multi-year affair, but now only gives Netflix a first-look option on future Archewell productions.

From Salon • Aug. 27, 2025

Draper was playfully scolded by his partner Jessica Pegula for describing the new-look event as an "exhibition" - a word used disparagingly by its detractors.

From BBC • Aug. 21, 2025

Several of the actors spoke disparagingly about the production, with Hoskins calling the shoot a “nightmare.”

From New York Times • Apr. 7, 2023

“You’ve got to wonder about a coach who speaks so disparagingly about his player, Reggie. Not exactly the kind of guy you want to mentor kids.”

From "Here to Stay" by Sara Farizan

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.