Meaning & Definition of word "Degrade"

Degrade

/dɪˈɡreɪd/

1. to lower in dignity or status; to bring into disrepute.
- Example: The scandal will degrade the reputation of the organization.
2. to reduce in quality or value.
- Example: Pollution can degrade the quality of the air and water.
3. to break down or deteriorate chemically.
- Example: Certain chemicals can degrade plastics over time.
4. to wear down or diminish.
- Example: The constant use of the equipment began to degrade its performance.
5. to cause someone to feel shame or loss of self-respect.
- Example: 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.

Meaning: To diss someone or something.

● Example Sentence: Don't degrade me in front of everyone.

Meaning: To put someone down.

● Example Sentence: He always degrades her when she tries to speak.