pejorative

adjective
UK: /pɪˈdʒɒr.ə.tɪv/
US: /pəˈdʒɔːr.ə.tɪv/

  1. Expressing disapproval or a low opinion; having negative connotations.

    1. The word 'idiot' is used as a pejorative term.
    2. The journalist used pejorative language to describe the government's policies.

Synonyms

insulting negative uncomplimentary disparaging derogatory
pejorative noun

  1. A word or phrase that expresses disapproval or contempt.

    1. Is 'shrink' a pejorative for 'therapist'?
    2. Many feel 'bimbo' is a pejorative that should not be used at all.

Frequently Asked Questions

The phonetic transcription of "pejorative" is /pɪˈdʒɒr.ə.tɪv/ in British English and /pəˈdʒɔːr.ə.tɪv/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "pejorative": insulting, negative, uncomplimentary, disparaging, derogatory.

Example usage of "pejorative": "The word 'idiot' is used as a pejorative term.". More examples on the page.