belittled

Belittled is the past tense and past participle of belittle, a verb meaning to make someone or something seem less important, impressive, or worthy than is warranted; to disparage or dismiss. The term derives from be- and little, and entered English in the late 16th century, with usage that emphasized reducing perceived value or significance.

Belittling can be intentional or unintentional and is a common feature of interpersonal communication. It may appear in personal relationships, workplaces, and online interactions. Forms include insults, dismissive remarks, patronizing language, sarcasm, condescension, and other cues that make the target feel undervalued. Belittling can be verbal or nonverbal, such as a scoff, rolled eyes, or a condescending tone.

The impact of belittling can be damaging. It can erode self-esteem, increase stress, undermine trust, and hinder effective communication or collaboration. Repeated belittlement may contribute to anxiety, depression, or a sense of helplessness, and it can have lasting effects on relationships and work performance.

Belittling is distinct from constructive criticism, which targets specific actions or outcomes rather than the person’s inherent worth. It relies on demeaning language or attitudes rather than objective evaluation. Related concepts include demeaning, trivializing, denigration, minimization, and condescension.