1. a decrease in value over time
Usage: economics; accounting
2. the act of criticizing or belittling something
Usage: formal

Examples

• The car’s depreciation was significant after just one year.
• Accountants calculate depreciation on office equipment annually.
• Real estate in that area showed little depreciation during the recession.
• The company recorded depreciation expenses for its machinery.
• His constant depreciation of her work hurt her confidence.
• The critic’s depreciation of the novel was unfair and harsh.