detraction

(dē traks̸hən, di-)

noun

  1. a taking away; detracting
  2. a malicious discrediting of someone's character, accomplishments, etc., as by revealing hidden faults or by slander

Origin: ME detraccioun

Related Forms:

See detraction in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun
  1. The act of detracting or taking away.
  2. A derogatory or damaging comment on a person's character or reputation; disparagement: The candidate responded sharply to the long list of detractions concocted by his opponent.

Related Forms:

  • de·tracˈtive adjective
  • de·tracˈtive·ly adverb

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