Disparagement, n.
Etymology: [Cf. OF. desparagement.]
1. Matching any one in marriage under his or her degree; injurious union with something of inferior excellence; a lowering in rank or estimation. [Eng.] And thought that match a foul disparagement. Spenser.
2. Injurious comparison with an inferior; a depreciating or dishonoring opinion or insinuation; diminution of value; dishonor; indignity; reproach; disgrace; detraction; -- commonly with to. It ought to be no disparagement to a star that it is not the sun. South. Imitation is a disparagement and a degradation in a Christian minister. I. Taylor.
Syn. -- Indignity; derogation; detraction; reproach; dishonor; debasement; degradation; disgrace.
Shades of meaning
Fernald lists disparagement only as an antonym, under praise.
He lists it without comment; the entries above explain its neighbors.