derogatory term; disparaging name
A word or name used to belittle or insult someone or a group. Often used in discussions of language and discrimination.
その言葉は特定の民族に対する蔑称とみなされている。
That word is considered a derogatory term for a particular ethnic group.
彼は相手を蔑称で呼んだ。
He called the other person by a disparaging name.
蔑称 is a derogatory or contemptuous term for someone, the opposite of 敬称, which is a respectful title.
蔑称 is a derogatory or disrespectful term, the direct opposite of 尊称, which is an honorific title of respect.
Compound of 蔑 (べつ, 'scorn, despise') and 称 (しょう, 'name, designation'). The reading べっしょう is a regular on'yomi combination.