Here's a breakdown:
* Origin: From the Latin word "pejor," meaning "worse."
* Usage: It's used to describe language that is considered offensive or insulting.
* Examples:
* "He used a pejorative term to describe her intelligence."
* "The article contained several pejorative remarks about the politician."
* "The word 'retarded' is a pejorative term that should be avoided."
In essence, a pejorative word or phrase is one that carries a negative emotional weight and aims to diminish or devalue the subject it refers to.