Meaning & Definition of word "Demoralize"
to
Demoralize
/dɪˈmɔːrəlaɪz/
verb:
- 1. To weaken or destroy the morale or confidence of someone.
- Example: The team's early losses began to demoralize the players, leading to a lack of motivation.
- 2. To discourage or dishearten a person or group.
- Example: Constant criticism can demoralize employees and diminish their productivity.
- 3. To cause a person or group to lose enthusiasm or hope.
- Example: The failure of the project seemed to demoralize the entire staff.
- 4. To render ineffective or unsuccessful by undermining confidence.
- Example: The negative comments from the audience served to demoralize the performers.
Etymology
From de- + moralize, potentially influenced by demoralisation.
Common Phrases and Expressions
demoralized troops:
Soldiers who have lost hope or confidence in their mission.
demoralizing defeat:
A defeat that severely affects the morale of a team or individual.
to demoralize someone:
To intentionally or unintentionally harm someone's confidence.
Related Words
morale:
The confidence, enthusiasm, and discipline of a person or group.
demoralization:
The process of causing a loss of confidence or hope.
Slang Meanings of demoralize
Meaning: To bum someone out.
Example Sentence: That news totally bummed me out; I feel demoralized.
Meaning: To kill the vibe.
Example Sentence: Don't demoralize the party with your negativity.