Belittle
To make someone or something seem less important, impressive, or valuable than they actually are; to disparage or minimize the value or contributions of someone or something.
verbBelittle
To make someone or something seem less important, impressive, or valuable than they actually are; to disparage or minimize the value or contributions of someone or something.
verbImagine This
Picture a student presenting a thoughtful project. A classmate mutters, 'Nice try,' and a teacher nods, but the other students glance away, and the presenter feels their idea shrink as belittling comments chip away at their confidence.
Sounds Like
bi-LIT-əl
Looks Like
be little
Remember This
The word comes from be- (on/over) + little, literally meaning 'to make small.' It carries a negative connotation of diminishing someone's worth.
Other Forms
Note
This is a transitive verb and takes a direct object (belittle someone or something). Do not use in contexts where praise is meant; choose 'praise' or 'commend' instead. Related to 'minimize' and 'disparage' but with a more personal, judgmental nuance.