Demean: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in situations where someone is treated in a way that makes them feel less respected or valued. It can imply reducing someone's dignity or standing.

• He demeaned his colleague in front of the entire team
• The rude comments demeaned her self-esteem

Often used to describe actions or behaviors that lower someone's moral or intellectual quality, or reduce their status. It can also refer to the reduction of quality or value of something.

• The harsh treatment degraded his sense of self-worth
• Polluting the river will degrade the environment

Applied when someone is made to feel ashamed or foolish, often in public, causing intense embarrassment or shame.

• The manager humiliated him in front of the entire office
• She felt humiliated after the incident

Commonly used when someone makes another feel small or less important, often by dismissing their opinions or achievements.

• She belittled his efforts to learn a new skill
• The teacher's remarks belittled the students' creativity

Used to indicate causing a severe loss of respect or dignity for someone or something. It often carries a strong negative connotation.

• His comments were intended to demean her in front of the entire team.
• She felt demeaned by the way her boss treated her.

Used when someone does something in a way that they feel is below their usual standard or dignity. This phrase often implies a sacrifice of pride.

• He refused to lower himself to their level just to win the argument.
• She won't lower herself by responding to such petty insults.

Applies when someone talks down to others, implying that the person feels superior. It has a negative connotation as it suggests arrogance.

• Don't condescend to me; I know exactly what I'm doing.
• Her tone was so condescending, it was clear she did not respect my opinion.