Demeaning Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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demeaning
[dɪˈmiːnɪŋ ]
Definitions
in a negative way
Causing someone to lose their dignity and the respect of others; degrading.
Synonyms
belittling, degrading, disparaging, humiliating.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| demeaning |
Used to describe actions or words that lower someone's dignity or self-respect. Can be used both in formal and informal situations.
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| degrading |
Describes something that causes someone to feel shame or lose dignity, often invoking a sense of being lowered to a less respectable condition.
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| belittling |
Refers to language or actions that make someone or something seem less important or less valuable. Often used in a negative context.
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| humiliating |
Refers to actions or words that cause someone to feel deep shame and lose pride or self-respect. Often associated with public embarrassment.
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| disparaging |
Used when someone is speaking in a way that shows they have a low opinion of someone or something, usually meant to hurt or criticize.
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Examples of usage
- His demeaning comments made her feel worthless.
- The boss's demeaning attitude towards his employees created a toxic work environment.
- She was tired of his demeaning behavior and decided to leave the relationship.
action towards someone
To lower someone's dignity or standing; to degrade or belittle.
Synonyms
belittle, degrade, disparage, humiliate.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| demeaning |
This word is used to describe actions or words that make someone feel less respected or valued. It typically has a general context of reducing someone's self-worth.
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| degrade |
Degrade implies a reduction in someone's dignity or status. It often suggests a more severe and direct lowering of someone's standing or quality.
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| belittle |
Belittle is used when someone makes something or someone seem less important or significant. It's often used in a context where someone downplays achievements, efforts, or worth.
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| humiliate |
This word is used in contexts where someone is publicly shamed or embarrassed, often with the intent to make them feel lower in status.
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| disparage |
This word is used when someone criticizes someone or something in a way that shows they have no respect for them. Disparage is usually more about verbal or written communication.
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Examples of usage
- He was constantly demeaning his colleagues, making them feel incompetent.
- Her sarcastic remarks were demeaning to those around her.
- The teacher warned the students not to demean each other during the debate.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Research shows that people who experience demeaning behavior often struggle with self-esteem and personal well-being.
- Children who face demeaning comments may develop anxiety or depression, impacting their development.
- Interventions that promote kindness and respect counteract the negative effects of demeaning behavior.
Pop Culture
- Films and literature often explore themes of demeaning behavior to depict character flaws or societal issues.
- Reality TV shows have been criticized for promoting demeaning behavior as entertainment.
- Notable songs address themes of empowerment, countering the effects of demeaning messages in society.
Education
- Classes on emotional intelligence emphasize the importance of recognizing and avoiding demeaning behavior.
- Anti-bullying programs in schools work to educate students about the harm caused by demeaning words and actions.
- Effective communication training helps people understand how demeaning remarks affect relationships and workplace dynamics.
History
- Throughout history, demeaning language has been used to suppress groups, reinforcing social inequality.
- Movements advocating for civil rights often highlight the need to eliminate demeaning rhetoric from public discourse.
- Historical texts reflect how demeaning attitudes were prevalent in various cultures and often justified discrimination.
Origin of 'demeaning'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'de-' meaning 'down' and 'mean' from 'minuere', which means 'to lessen'.
- It appeared in the English language in its modern sense in the late 19th century, reflecting social attitudes of the time.
- Originally, it described actions that reduced a person's dignity, highlighting societal hierarchies.
The word 'demeaning' originates from the verb 'demean', which comes from Old French 'demener' meaning 'to conduct, behave'. Over time, 'demean' evolved to include the sense of lowering in dignity or status, giving rise to 'demeaning' in the 17th century. The concept of demeaning behavior has been a subject of ethical and moral discussions throughout history, emphasizing the importance of treating others with respect and dignity.
See also: demean, mean, meaningless, meanly, meanness, means, meant, meantime, meanwhile, meanwhilst.