demean

¹

[dih-meen]

verb (used with object)

1. to lower in dignity, honor, or standing; debase.

   He demeaned himself by accepting the bribe.

   Synonyms: mortify, humiliate, humble, degrade
   Antonyms: honor, dignify

demean

²

[dih-meen]

verb (used with object)

1. to conduct or behave (oneself ) in a specified manner.

noun

1. Archaic.,  demeanor.

demean

¹

/ dɪˈmiːn /

verb

1. (tr) to lower (oneself) in dignity, status, or character; humble; debase

demean

²

/ dɪˈmiːn /

verb

1. rare,  (tr) to behave or conduct (oneself) in a specified way

Word History and Origins

Origin of demean¹

1595–1605; de- + mean ², modeled on debase

Origin of demean²

1250–1300; Middle English deme ( i ) nen < Anglo-French, Old French demener, equivalent to de- de- + mener to lead, conduct < Latin mināre to drive, minārī to threaten

Word History and Origins

Origin of demean¹

C17: see _de- , _mean ²; on the model of debase

Origin of demean²

C13: from Old French demener, from _de- + mener to lead, drive, from Latin mināre to drive (animals), from minārī to use threats

Example Sentences

He also put quotation marks around the word congresswoman in a move to delegitimize Crockett’s stature and demeaned the progressive group of mostly women House members of color known as the Squad.

From Salon

The Republicans so demeaned the “liberal” brand that defined Roosevelt and the New Deal that, in recent years, many Democrats have adopted the “progressive” label in defense.

From Salon

Especially when it became clear that the writers thought it made perfect sense to keep Carrie and Aidan’s children separate — so unbelievable, and demeaning to both characters.

From Los Angeles Times

She included photos of herself with a black eye and alleged Phypers regularly called her profane and demeaning names and periodically threatened to kill her or himself.

From Los Angeles Times

He’s forever bragging about how strong and tough and perfect he is, but he’s also forever whining, accusing everyone else of trying to undermine, cheat or demean him for no legitimate reason.

From Salon

Related Words

• belittle 
• debase 
• degrade 
• despise 
• disparage