Definition of depreciatenext

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb depreciate contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of depreciate are belittle, decry, and disparage. While all these words mean "to express a low opinion of," depreciate implies a representing as being of less value than commonly believed.

critics depreciate his plays for being unabashedly sentimental

When is belittle a more appropriate choice than depreciate?

While in some cases nearly identical to depreciate, belittle usually suggests a contemptuous or envious attitude.

belittled the achievements of others

In what contexts can decry take the place of depreciate?

The words decry and depreciate are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, decry implies open condemnation with intent to discredit.

decried their defeatist attitude

When might disparage be a better fit than depreciate?

Although the words disparage and depreciate have much in common, disparage implies depreciation by indirect means such as slighting or invidious comparison.

disparaged polo as a game for the rich

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of depreciate In recent years, Bitcoin has become widely regarded as an inflation hedge, often outperforming fiat currencies when global currencies depreciate. Jason Phillips, Ascend Agency, 30 Jan. 2026 With new car prices hovering around $50,000 these days, buying used can feel like a no-brainer because of how much new cars depreciate in their first few years. Mike Winters, CNBC, 29 Jan. 2026 Ether, the second-largest cryptocurrency by total market value, depreciated to almost $2,900, dropping more than 8% in less than 24 hours, additional Coinbase figures from TradingView reveal. Charles Lloyd Bovaird Ii, Forbes.com, 21 Jan. 2026 New vehicles depreciate quickly, losing a percentage of their value and making most models more affordable for consumers. Charles Singh, USA Today, 18 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for depreciate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for depreciate
Verb
  • The thinking, according to airport officials, is to encourage riders to use the yet-to-open Automated People Mover, also known as Skylink, and to reduce vehicle traffic around the terminals.
    Karen Garcia, Los Angeles Times, 10 Mar. 2026
  • From the guest's POV, drinking water is provided in reusable glass bottles, with water refilling stations across the property, and restaurant ingredients are sourced from the nearby partner South Farm and local suppliers to reduce the carbon footprint and support the community.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • In its Thursday decision dismissing the case, the military's top legal officers said the charges against the soldiers were being dropped because the video did not show abuse violent enough to merit a criminal conviction and had been improperly leaked to the media.
    JULIA FRANKEL THE ASSOCIATED PRESS, Arkansas Online, 13 Mar. 2026
  • Room for Disagreement Azizi has dismissed concerns that his close relationships with regional leaders could pave the way for government interference.
    Vivianne Wandera, semafor.com, 13 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • The suit claimed that Wilson intentionally blocked the sale of The Deb in hopes of devaluing Wilson’s company, Camp Sugar, to the point where AI Films would sell its stake.
    Jason P. Frank, Vulture, 13 Mar. 2026
  • Even if the fastball is being devalued across baseball, that’s a good sign.
    Eno Sarris, New York Times, 13 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • After a decade of dramatic growth, homelessness programs now face a period of diminishing resources.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 10 Mar. 2026
  • Advocates say that level of disenrollment will sharply diminish the state’s health care system as a whole, by robbing hospitals and clinics of revenue.
    Andrew Graham March 9, Sacbee.com, 10 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • The frame is made from durable aluminum and wicker to minimize wear and tear over the seasons.
    Paige Bennett, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Mar. 2026
  • Applying mulch to your garden helps prevent weeds, retain soil moisture, and minimize erosion.
    Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 15 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • And for the president when he’s criticized about lifting the sanctions on Russia, to somehow turn around and blame Zelenskyy, blame Ukraine.
    NBC news, NBC news, 15 Mar. 2026
  • The Israeli military later posted a second message in Farsi, noting the head of Iran's judiciary was at the rally and criticizing Iran for blocking many from seeing their warning, as authorities in Iran have almost completely shut down internet access.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 14 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Depreciate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/depreciate. Accessed 17 Mar. 2026.

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