Definition Dictionary

To discourage an action or make it less likely to occur.

To decline gradually in condition, quality, or effectiveness.

Something that discourages an action.

To dislike someone or something intensely.

To reduce the value, quality, or appeal of something, usually in the phrase detract from.

A disparaging statement or action that diminishes someone's merit.

Harm or disadvantage.

Causing harm or putting something at a disadvantage.

Departing from an accepted or expected standard, sometimes with a disapproving implication.

A departure from an expected course, standard, or pattern.

Entirely lacking a specified quality or thing.

Deeply committed to religious belief or practice.

A conversation or exchange of ideas between two or more participants.

A bitter and forceful verbal attack.

A division into two contrasting parts or categories.

The choice and arrangement of words, or the clarity with which they are pronounced.

Intended to teach, sometimes in an overly instructive manner.

To recognize or show the features that make things distinct.

Lacking confidence in one's own abilities or position.

One word family: also includes diffidence.

Spread out or lacking concentration and precision.

Calm and serious in a way that expresses self-respect and invites respect from others.

A departure from the main subject or line of thought.

Moving away from the main subject into other topics.

In a state of disrepair after neglect or age.