Put-down

A put-down is a derogatory remark or action intended to belittle or insult someone.

It can manifest verbally through humiliating comments or non-verbal cues that convey contempt or disdain.

Such behaviors can negatively impact the targeted individual's self-esteem and can occur in various contexts, including interpersonal relationships, social gatherings, and professional environments.

Put-down meaning with examples

During the meeting, Maria made a put-down about Tom's presentation skills, saying it was 'one of the worst she's ever seen.' This comment not only embarrassed Tom but also discouraged him from sharing his ideas in the future. Such put-downs can create a toxic work environment, where individuals feel undervalued and reluctant to contribute their thoughts openly.
While chatting with friends, Jason made a put-down about Sarah's cooking abilities, joking that even takeout would have been better. Although he intended it as humor, Sarah felt hurt and undermined. This type of put-down can strain friendships, as it triggers insecurities and sends the message that one’s efforts are unappreciated.
In a competitive sports setting, a coach's put-down aimed at a player who missed a crucial goal can demoralize the athlete. Stating 'That was the worst play I've seen in years' might motivate some, but for others, it feels like a destructive put-down that harms their confidence and may affect future performance.
At school, a student might deliver a put-down by mocking a peer's fashion choices, saying, 'Nice outfit; did you pick that up at a thrift store?' Such remarks can lead to long-lasting emotional scars and a fear of self-expression, highlighting the damaging effects of casual put-downs among adolescents.

Put-down Synonyms

affront aspersion belittlement denigration derision disparagement gibe insult jibe mockery put-down rebuke ridicule scolding scorn slight slur slur sneer taunt

Put-down Antonyms

acclaim admiration applause appreciation boast celebration commendation compliment distinction encouragement endorsement exaltation flattery honor laudation praise respect reverence support veneration

Put-down Crossword Answers

3 Letters

DIS SET ATE LAY RIP

4 Letters

SNUB LAID SLAM SLAP NOTE ALIT SLUR DISS DROP LAND

5 Letters

WROTE WRITE ABASE NOTED QUASH QUELL ENTER DECRY ABASH PLUNK INTER TAUNT PLACE

6 Letters

DEMEAN DERIDE ABASED PENNED SUBDUE RECORD REPOSE UNLOAD

7 Letters

REPRESS ENTERED ASPERSE DEGRADE AFFRONT QUELLED DEPOSIT DERIDED SLANDER PLUNKED DESTROY SETDOWN GETDOWN DROPOFF SQUELCH

8 Letters

DEMEANED BADMOUTH INSULTED BELITTLE DISGRACE TAKEDOWN

9 Letters

DEPOSITED DENIGRATE PLACEDOWN WRITEDOWN DISCHARGE BRINGDOWN SQUELCHER

10 Letters

DISPARAGED DENIGRATED