\De*cry"\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Decried}; p. pr. & vb. n.
{Decrying}.] [F. d['e]crier, OF. descrier; pref. des- (L.
dis-) + crier to cry. See {Cry}, and cf. {Descry}.]
To cry down; to censure as faulty, mean, or worthless; to
clamor against; to blame clamorously; to discredit; to
disparage.
      For small errors they whole plays decry. --Dryden.
      Measures which are extolled by one half of the kingdom
      are naturally decried by the other.      --Addison.
Syn: To {Decry}, {Depreciate}, {Detract}, {Disparage}.
Usage: Decry and depreciate refer to the estimation of a
       thing, the former seeking to lower its value by
       clamorous censure, the latter by representing it as of
       little worth. Detract and disparage also refer to
       merit or value, which the former assails with
       caviling, insinuation, etc., while the latter
       willfully underrates and seeks to degrade it. Men
       decry their rivals and depreciate their measures. The
       envious detract from the merit of a good action, and
       disparage the motives of him who performs it.