degrade

[dɪˈɡreɪd]

degrade Definition

• 1. to treat someone or something poorly and without respect
• 2. to reduce the quality or value of something
• 3. to break down or decompose chemically

Using degrade: Examples

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

• Example

  The boss's constant criticism degraded his employees' morale.

• Example

  The pollution in the river degrades the water quality.

• Example

  The metal will degrade over time if not properly stored.

degrade Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for degrade

• humiliate
• disgrace
• dishonor
• lower
• reduce

Antonyms for degrade

• elevate
• promote
• uplift

Phrases with degrade

• self-degradation

  the act of belittling or humiliating oneself

  Example

  Her constant self-degradation is a sign of low self-esteem.

• degrade oneself

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

  Example

  He degraded himself by begging for money on the street.

• degrade into

  to deteriorate or decline into something worse

  Example

  The peaceful protest degraded into violence and chaos.

Origins of degrade

from Old French 'degré', meaning 'step'

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Summary: degrade in Brief

To degrade [dɪˈɡreɪd] means to treat someone or something poorly, reduce quality or value, or break down chemically. Examples include 'The boss's constant criticism degraded his employees' morale,' and 'The pollution in the river degrades the water quality.' Phrases include 'self-degradation,' 'degrade oneself,' and 'degrade into.' Synonyms include 'humiliate,' 'disgrace,' and 'lower.'