Abasement: meaning, definitions and examples
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abasement
[ əˈbeɪsmənt ]
feeling inferior
Abasement refers to the action or effect of lowering someone in rank, office, or estimation; it involves a loss of dignity or self-respect. It often implies a state of degradation that may result from humiliation or shame. In social contexts, it highlights the broader implications of power dynamics and personal worth.
Synonyms
degradation, disgrace, humiliation, shame
Examples of usage
- His abasement after the public criticism was evident.
- She felt a deep sense of abasement in front of her peers.
- The abasement of the defeated army was a dramatic sight.
Translations
Translations of the word "abasement" in other languages:
🇵🇹 humilhação
🇮🇳 अपमान
🇩🇪 Demütigung
🇮🇩 merendahkan
🇺🇦 приниження
🇵🇱 poniżenie
🇯🇵 屈辱
🇫🇷 humiliation
🇪🇸 humillación
🇹🇷 aşağılama
🇰🇷 모욕
🇸🇦 إذلال
🇨🇿 ponižování
🇸🇰 poníženie
🇨🇳 羞辱
🇸🇮 ponižanje
🇮🇸 niðurdýrun
🇰🇿 қорлау
🇬🇪 დამცირება
🇦🇿 təhqir
🇲🇽 humillación
Etymology
The term 'abasement' originates from the Middle English word 'abaissent' or 'abaisement,' which means 'lowering' or 'humbling.' This, in turn, derives from the Old French word 'abaisser,' meaning 'to lower,' from 'a-' (from) + 'baisser' (to lower or let down). The concept has evolved through centuries to denote not just the physical act of lowering but also the emotional and psychological states associated with loss of dignity, self-respect, or social status. The use of 'abasement' in literature and discussions of social hierarchy emphasizes its significance in understanding personal and societal relationships.