Demeans Meaning in English
word · lemma: demean
dɪˈminz
di-MEENZ
dɪmˈiːnz
dim-EENZ
Definition
To lower someone's dignity, value, or self-respect, usually by treating them meanly or without respect.
Usage & Nuances
Formal or strong word; often used in contexts involving respect, work, or social interactions. Commonly appears with 'demeans himself/herself' (reflexive) or 'demeans someone.' Not to be confused with 'demand' or 'mean'—it specifically describes lowering dignity.
Spanish: degrada - humillaPortuguese (BR): rebaixa - humilhaPortuguese (PT): rebaixa - humilhaChinese (Simplified): 贬低 - 侮辱Chinese (Traditional): 貶低 - 侮辱Hindi: अपमानित करता है - नीचा दिखाता हैArabic: يُهين - يُذلBengali: অপমান করা - হেয় করাRussian: унижатьJapanese: 貶めるVietnamese: làm hạ thấp - làm nhụcKorean: 비하하다 - 모욕하다Turkish: aşağılamak - küçümsemekUrdu: ذلیل کرنا - بے عزت کرناIndonesian: merendahkan - menghinakan
Example Sentences
He never demeans his coworkers.
basic
It demeans people to be treated unfairly.
basic
Making fun of others demeans you.
basic
She refuses to do work that demeans her talents.
natural
No one should accept behavior that demeans them.
natural
Talking down to students demeans the whole learning experience.
natural