Degrade
/dɪˈɡreɪd/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo lower in quality, character, or value; to make worse.
/dɪˈɡreɪd/
To reduce in quality or value.
The constant exposure to sunlight will degrade the plastic.
💡 Simply: When something degrades, it's like it's getting worse or breaking down. Think of a sandcastle on the beach—the waves and wind degrade it over time!
👶 For kids: To make something less good or make it go bad.
More Examples
The company's reputation was degraded by the scandal.
The old software degraded the computer's performance.
How It's Used
"Pollution degrades the quality of the air and water."
"His actions degraded his reputation in the community."
To lower in status, rank, or character; to humiliate.
/dɪˈɡreɪd/
To lower the rank or status of.
The general was degraded to the rank of private.
💡 Simply: Degrading can also mean to lower someone's position or make them feel bad. If your friend constantly insults you, that's a form of degrading behavior.
👶 For kids: To make someone feel small or less important.
More Examples
The comments were designed to degrade the victim.
The cruel words degraded her self-esteem.
How It's Used
"The officer was degraded in rank for insubordination."
"The system attempts to degrade the status of people."
Idioms & expressions
degrading to human dignity
Describes actions that violate or diminish a person's sense of self-respect and worth.
"The conditions in the prison were found to be degrading to human dignity."
From French *dégrader*, from *de-* (down, away) + *grader* (to step, grade), from Latin *gradus* (step).
Historically, the word was used in religious contexts to describe falling from grace or being deprived of a sacred office. It has since broadened to encompass a wider range of diminishment and worsening.
Memory tip
Imagine a staircase. If the steps are worn down, the staircase is degraded.