degrade
word
Definition
To make something or someone worse, less valuable, or less respected. It can also mean to break down, especially referring to materials degrading over time or in the environment.
Usage & Nuances
'Degrade' is formal and can refer to harming dignity ('degrade a person'), reducing quality ('degrade a product'), or breaking down substances ('plastic degrades'). Don't confuse with 'decompose' (for natural breakdown only). Often used in science and social contexts.
Example Sentences
Rain can degrade the quality of the paint on your house.
basic
We should not degrade other people with our words.
basic
Plastic bags take a long time to degrade in nature.
basic
Don't let insults from others degrade your self-worth.
natural
Some chemicals quickly degrade when exposed to sunlight.
natural
He felt degraded after being unfairly blamed at work.
natural