Self-deprecation is the act of reprimanding oneself by belittling, undervaluing, or disparaging oneself, or being excessively modest. It can be used in humor and tension release.
History
Self-deprecation is often perceived as being a characteristic of certain nations, such as in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand, where "blowing one's own trumpet" is frowned upon. Famous examples include English comedian David Mitchell. It is also seen as a major component of the comedy of North American comedians such as Rodney Dangerfield, Phyllis Diller, Joan Rivers, Louis C.K., Doug Stanhope, Don Knotts, Woody Allen, Tina Fey, Zach Galifianakis, Mike Birbiglia, Hannibal Buress, Nathan Fielder, Carrot Top, Jon Stewart, Larry David, David Letterman, Conan O'Brien, Leslie Jones, Bernie Mac, Amy Schumer, Jim Gaffigan, Bo Burnham, and Jim Norton.