self-deprecation

noun

self-dep·​re·​ca·​tion ˌself-de-pri-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce self-deprecation (audio)
plural self-deprecations
: disparagement or undervaluation of oneself
On-camera and off, cheerful self-deprecation is the key to Hugh Grant's formidable charm.— Leah Rozen
Comedy is about self-deprecation, about showing vulnerability.— David Moore

Examples of self-deprecation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
While well-intentioned, this self-deprecation can damage your credibility and create awkwardness. — Melody Wilding, Forbes, 4 Mar. 2025 Nothing is more disarming than a little self-deprecation. — Stephanie Nolasco, Fox News, 3 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1846, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-deprecation was in 1846

Rhymes for self-deprecation

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self-deprecating
self-deprecation
self-deprecatory
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Cite this Entry

“Self-deprecation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-deprecation. Accessed 31 Mar. 2025.

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