Degrade
/dɪˈɡreɪd/noun
To lower in dignity, honor, or quality.
Did you know?The word 'degrade' has roots in the Latin 'degradare', which means to remove someone from their rank or status, often linked to punishment or shame.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
degradare
“To lower down, to reduce in rank or status.”
Old French
Old French
degrader
“To reduce in rank or quality.”
14th Century
Middle English
degraden
“To lower in status or esteem.”
Modern English
English
degrade
“To lower in dignity or quality, often as a result of external actions.”