\Dep"re*cate\ (d[e^]p"r[-e]*k[=a]t), v. t. [imp. & p.
p. {Deprecated} (-k[=a]`t[e^]d); p. pr. & vb. n.
{Deprecating} (-k[=a]`t[i^]ng).] [L. deprecatus, p. p. of
deprecari to avert by player, to deprecate; de- + precari to
pray. See {Pray}.]
To pray against, as an evil; to seek to avert by prayer; to
desire the removal of; to seek deliverance from; to express
deep regret for; to disapprove of strongly.
      His purpose was deprecated by all round him, and he was
      with difficulty induced to adandon it.   --Sir W.
                                               Scott.