adverb
- in a manner that makes someone or something seem less important or valuable; dismissively or contemptuously
Usage: formed from the verb 'belittle' + adverbial suffix '-ly'; typically modifies verbs describing speech or behavior
Examples
- She spoke belittlingly about his artistic efforts.
- He belittlingly referred to her ideas as 'amateur hour.'
- The critic belittlingly dismissed the film as a waste of time.
- They belittlingly laughed at his accent during the presentation.
- She belittlingly suggested that his degree was from a second-rate university.