Demeaning: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe actions or words that lower someone's dignity or self-respect. Can be used both in formal and informal situations.

• He found the task of making coffee for everyone demeaning.
• The comments made during the meeting were highly demeaning to the new employee.

Describes something that causes someone to feel shame or lose dignity, often invoking a sense of being lowered to a less respectable condition.

• The hazing rituals were degrading and completely unacceptable.
• He described the punishment as degrading treatment.

Refers to language or actions that make someone or something seem less important or less valuable. Often used in a negative context.

• She felt her contributions were belittled during the project discussion.
• The manager's belittling remarks caused a drop in team morale.

Refers to actions or words that cause someone to feel deep shame and lose pride or self-respect. Often associated with public embarrassment.

• The error in front of the entire class was humiliating.
• Being scolded by his boss in front of colleagues was a humiliating experience.

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.

• She made several disparaging remarks about his performance.
• The review was full of disparaging comments about the author's lack of skill.

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.

• His comments about her work were demeaning.
• She felt demeaned by the constant criticism.

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.

• The constant insults started to degrade her confidence.
• He felt degraded by the harsh punishment.

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.

• He belittled her achievements despite her hard work.
• Don't belittle the effort it took to complete the project.

This word is used in contexts where someone is publicly shamed or embarrassed, often with the intent to make them feel lower in status.

• He humiliated his opponent in front of everyone.
• She felt humiliated when she was singled out and criticized publicly.

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.

• She was quick to disparage his new idea during the meeting.
• The critics disparaged the author's latest book.