Question

scientific and intellectual progress came to a standstill during this time. there is a popular tendency to discount the medieval era as an inferior period between the glory of the roman empire and the splendor of the renaissance.
this conception of the middle ages is largely inaccurate, however. the medieval period saw the founding of the first universities in europe as well as the construction of impressive cathedrals such as the notre - dame of paris. a number of scientific inventions, such as eyeglasses and mechanical clocks, improved everyday life considerably during this time. the use of heavy ploughs, horse collars, and water mills also increased agricultural productivity. there was no paucity of literary genius, either; many poetic masterpieces, such as chaucers canterbury tales and dantes divine comedy, were written during the middle ages. perhaps we should think twice, then, before using the term \middle ages\ pejoratively to describe anything that is perceived as backwards, unsophisticated, or ignorant.
what is the meaning of pejoratively as used in the passage?
in a negative or belittling way
in a vague way
in a humorous way
in a deceitful or treacherous way

Explanation:

The passage notes the common negative view of the Medieval era as "backwards, unsophisticated, or ignorant", and argues this view is inaccurate. The word "pejoratively" here refers to using the term "Middle Ages" in this negative, belittling context, which matches the first option.

Answer:

in a negative or belittling way