Demeaning - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Definition:
Causing someone to lose dignity or respect, often through humiliation or belittlement.
Synonyms:
degrading, humiliating, insulting, disparaging
Part of Speech:
adjective
Antonyms:
uplifting, dignifying
Common Collocations:
demeaning behavior, demeaning comments, demeaning attitude, demeaning treatment
Derivatives:
demeaningly, demeaned
Usage Tips:
Use "demeaning" to describe actions or words that lower someone's self-worth or status.
Common Phrases:
talk down to someone, make someone feel small, strip someone of dignity
Etymology:
From Old French "demener" (to conduct) + "-ing," implying reduction in status or worth.
Examples:
- 1. Her demeaning remarks made him feel worthless.
- 2. The boss’s demeaning tone upset the entire team.
- 3. Avoid using demeaning language in professional settings.
- 4. She found the constant criticism deeply demeaning.