menoscabar

to diminish, to undermine

verb meh-nohs-kah-BAHR Rare

Origin: From menos (less) + cabo (end, stump), suggesting wearing something down to a lesser state.

Usage Note

Menoscabar is a formal verb meaning to impair, detract from, or damage something — most commonly rights, dignity, or reputation: menoscabar los derechos (to undermine rights). The related noun is menoscabo (detriment, damage), often seen in legal phrases like sin menoscabo de (without prejudice to). This verb is largely absent from informal speech.

Examples

"Esa decisión menoscaba la credibilidad del tribunal."

Natural Translation

That decision undermines the credibility of the court.

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