Definition of the word depreciate

The word "depreciate" comes from the Latin word "depreciatus," which meant "lessened in value." In Middle English, the word "depreciacioun" was used to describe the act of lowering the value of something, particularly in the context of currency. The word "depreciate" originated in the late 16th century and was derived from the Middle English word "depreciacioun." It was first used to describe the lowering of the value of money, particularly due to inflation or other economic factors. Over time, the meaning of "depreciate" evolved to include the lowering of the value of other assets, such as property, equipment, or stocks, due to various factors, such as wear and tear, obsolescence, or market conditions. Today, "depreciate" is still used to describe the lowering of the value of assets, particularly in the context of accounting and finance. In summary, the word "depreciate" originated in Middle English from the Latin word "depreciatus," which meant "lessened in value." Its original meaning described the lowering of the value of money, but its meaning evolved to include the lowering of the value of other assets due to various factors.