demean

[dɪˈmiːn]

demean Definition

• 1. to cause someone to become less respected
• 2. to lower oneself in dignity or standing

Using demean: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "demean" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  His rude behavior demeaned the entire team.

• Example

  I refuse to demean myself by participating in this unethical activity.

• Example

  The comedian's jokes were criticized for demeaning certain groups of people.

demean Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for demean

• degrade
• belittle
• disparage

Antonyms for demean

• elevate
• dignify
• honor

Phrases with demean

• self-demeaning

  behaving in a way that lowers one's own dignity or self-respect

  Example

  Her constant self-deprecating comments are a sign of her self-demeaning personality.

• demean oneself

  to behave in a way that lowers one's own dignity or self-respect

  Example

  I will not demean myself by engaging in this petty argument.

• demean someone's character

  to say or do something that causes others to think less of someone

  Example

  Spreading rumors about someone is a way to demean their character.

Origins of demean

from Old French 'demener', meaning 'to conduct'

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Summary: demean in Brief

'Demean' [dɪˈmiːn] means to lower someone's respect or to lower oneself in dignity or standing. It can be used in phrases like 'demean oneself' and 'demean someone's character.' The term has synonyms like 'degrade' and 'belittle,' and antonyms like 'elevate' and 'honor.'