verb (used without object), der·o·gat·ed, der·o·gat·ing.
- to detract, as from authority, estimation, etc. (usually followed by from).
- to stray in character or conduct; degenerate (usually followed by from).
verb (used with object), der·o·gat·ed, der·o·gat·ing.
- to disparage or belittle.
- Archaic. to take away (a part) so as to impair the whole.
adjective
- Archaic. debased.
verb (ˈdɛrəˌɡeɪt)
- (intr foll by from) to cause to seem inferior or be in disrepute; detract
- (intr foll by from) to deviate in standard or quality; degenerate
- (tr) to cause to seem inferior, etc; disparage
- (tr) to curtail the application of (a law or regulation)
adjective (ˈdɛrəɡɪt, -ˌɡeɪt)
- archaic debased or degraded
v.early 15c., from Latin derogatus, past participle of derogare “diminish” (see derogatory).