Degrade

/dɪˈɡreɪd/

Meaning & Definition

verb

to lower in dignity or status; to bring into disrepute.

The scandal will degrade the reputation of the organization.

to reduce in quality or value.

Pollution can degrade the quality of the air and water.

to break down or deteriorate chemically.

Certain chemicals can degrade plastics over time.

to wear down or diminish.

The constant use of the equipment began to degrade its performance.

to cause someone to feel shame or loss of self-respect.

The harsh criticism served to degrade her confidence.

From Latin degradare, meaning to reduce in rank or status.

degrade oneself

To lower one's own dignity or value.

socially degraded

To be in a state where one is regarded with lesser respect in society.

degrade into

To fall into a worse condition or state.

degradation

The process of degrading or being degraded.

degrading

Causing a loss of self-respect or respect for others.

To diss someone or something.

Don't degrade me in front of everyone.

To put someone down.

He always degrades her when she tries to speak.