Definition of detriment

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< detribalize

detrimental >

det·ri·ment    (dtr-mnt) KEY 

NOUN:

1. Damage, harm, or loss: took a long leave of absence without detriment to her career. See Synonyms at disadvantage.
2. Something that causes damage, harm, or loss: Smoking is now considered a detriment to good health.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English, from Old French, from Latin dtrmentum, from dtrtus, past participle of dterere, to lessen, wear down : d-, de- + terere, to rub; see ter-¹ in Indo-European roots