What type of semantic shift occurs when a term shifts to a more derogatory sense?

The term that describes a semantic shift towards a more derogatory or negative meaning is called deterioration. This process occurs when the connotation of a word evolves negatively over time, so its original meaning becomes less favorable. For instance, a word that once had a neutral or even positive implication can come to be associated with something undesirable or offensive, reflecting societal changes in perception.

Understanding deterioration is crucial because it reveals how language is not static; it evolves alongside cultural attitudes. This shift illustrates the dynamic nature of semantics and how societal factors can influence language development. In contrast, elevation refers to a shift toward a more positive meaning, while ellipsis involves the omission of parts of a phrase or word, and diphthong pertains to a specific linguistic concept concerning vowel sounds. Therefore, the concept of deterioration accurately captures the essence of a term moving into a derogatory sense.