demean
25 synonyms and 2 antonyms for demean, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To lower someone's dignity or make them seem less worthy of respect.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use demean
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From de- plus an old sense of mean meaning "lowly, common", from Old English gemæne.
Full origin of demean →Frequently asked questions
What does “demean” mean?
The word “demean” means to lower someone's dignity or make them seem less worthy of respect. In plain terms, to make someone (often yourself) look small, unworthy, or less respected.
How do you pronounce “demean”?
“Demean” is pronounced dih-MEEN (/dɪˈmiːn/ in IPA).
How do you use “demean” in a sentence?
Here is “demean” used in a sentence: “The insult was meant to demean her in front of colleagues.”
What is another word for “demean”?
Words with a similar meaning to “demean” include abase, bring down to size, cut down to size, debase, defame and degrade.
What is the opposite of “demean”?
The opposite of “demean” — its antonyms — are aggrandize and glorify.
What part of speech is “demean”?
“Demean” is a verb.
Where does the word “demean” come from?
The word “demean” comes from Old English. From de- plus an old sense of mean meaning "lowly, common", from Old English gemæne.