Demean

usgb/dɪˈmiːn/
verb

To lower in status, dignity or importance.

You shouldn't demean him just because he did not attend college.
Visual representation of "demean" - To lower in status, dignity or importance

Often appears as...

  • demean someone
  • don't demean
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "demean"
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Power Dynamics

Use when discussing someone's power or respect being reduced by others' actions or words.

Illustration for Power Dynamics
Mocking her ideas in the meeting served to demean her authority.
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Social Context

Common in discussions of social issues where someone's identity or group is treated as lesser.

Illustration for Social Context
The advertisement was criticized for demeaning a whole community.
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Emotional Impact

Highlights the emotional consequence of being devalued or disrespected.

Illustration for Emotional Impact
His sarcastic comments demeaned her and left her feeling humiliated.
Visual representation of the word "Demean"

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