Deprecate: meaning, pronunciation and examples
Deprecate verb. To express disapproval of something.
How to say it
DEP-rih-kayt/ˈdɛprɪkeɪt/
3 syllables, stressed on the first (DEP). Forms: deprecated, deprecating.
Meanings
- To express disapproval of something.
- In computing, to mark a feature as outdated and due to be removed.
Deprecate in a sentence
The editorial deprecated the council's decision to close the library.
This function is deprecated and will vanish in the next version.
Similar and opposite
Similar:
- disapprove of
- deplore
- criticise
- condemn
Opposite:
- approve
- endorse
Usage note
Deprecate means disapprove of; depreciate means lose value. Self-deprecating, meaning modestly belittling yourself, is now the standard form, though some still prefer self-depreciating.
Don’t confuse with depreciate
depreciate (verb): To lose value over time.
Where deprecate comes from
From Latin deprecari, to pray against or ward off.
Test yourself
Which word fills the gap?
This function is _____ and will vanish in the next version.
- appraise
- deprecate
- elude
Show the answer
deprecate: This function is deprecated and will vanish in the next version.