Meaning & Definition of word "Demote"

Demote

/dɪˈmoʊt/

verb:

  • 1. to reduce in rank, status, or grade.
    • Example: After the budget cuts, the company decided to demote several managers to save costs.
  • 2. to assign to a lower position or grade.
    • Example: The teacher had no choice but to demote the student for repeated misconduct.
  • 3. to move a player to a lower division or league.
    • Example: The team was forced to demote their star player to the minor league after a series of poor performances.
  • 4. to lower the importance or priority of something.
    • Example: The new policies will likely demote the significance of environmental issues in company decisions.

Etymology

From de- + mote (from Latin 'movere', meaning 'to move').

Common Phrases and Expressions

demote to:

to assign someone to a lower position

demote someone:

to reduce someone’s rank or status

demotion process:

the procedure involved in lowering someone's position

Related Words

promotion:

The act of raising someone to a higher rank or position.

relegate:

To assign to a lower position or status.

position:

The specific place or rank someone holds.

Slang Meanings of demote

Meaning: To drop someone from a position of power.

Example Sentence: He was totally demoted after that mistake at work.

Meaning: To be kicked down the ladder.

Example Sentence: After his slip-up, he felt like he was really demoted at the office.