denigratory

Denigratory is an adjective used to describe language, actions, or attitudes that belittle, demean, or devalue a person or group. It is commonly applied to remarks, rhetoric, or representations intended to undermine the target's worth, status, or dignity. The related noun is denigration, and the verb is denigrate.

Originating in English from the verb denigrate, which itself derives from the Latin denigrare “to blacken,” denigratory is formed by adding the suffix -atory to denigrate. The term has been in use since the 18th or 19th century and is widely used in linguistic, sociological, and media analysis contexts.

Denigratory language often targets identity characteristics such as race, gender, ethnicity, religion, nationality, or disability, though it can address individuals or groups more broadly. It is frequently distinguished from merely critical or negative language by its intention to demean or devalue the target, or to justify discrimination or exclusion. Examples include denigratory remarks that stereotype a group, or denigratory labels that obscure individual traits behind group-based assumptions.

While closely related to derogatory, denigratory emphasizes the act of denigration and its belittling effect, whereas derogatory emphasizes expressing a low opinion or insulting wording. In practice, many expressions are both denigratory and derogatory.

See also: denigrate, denigration, derogatory, hate speech, stereotype.