denigrate
/ˈdɛn.ɪ.ɡɹeɪt/
Group 34Difficulty 2/3
Definition
- (verb)
- To criticize unfairly; to disparage GRE
Example in Context
The campaign to denigrate the scientist's reputation ultimately failed when her findings were independently confirmed by three separate research teams.
Etymology
To put someone down by blackening their reputation.
- de- (Latin) — down
- nigrare (Latin) — to blacken
Memory Aid
🖤Sounds like “denigrate”
When you DENEGRATE someone, you’re throwing black paint on their shining reputation like a jealous artist!
Visual Association
🖌️A mean artist splattering black paint over a beautiful painting of a friend's face.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “denigrate” mean on the GRE?
denigrate (verb) means “To criticize unfairly; to disparage”. The campaign to denigrate the scientist's reputation ultimately failed when her findings were independently confirmed by three separate research teams.
How to remember “denigrate” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “denigrate” sounds like “denigrate”. When you DENEGRATE someone, you’re throwing black paint on their shining reputation like a jealous artist!