demean
UK[dɪˈmiːn]US[dɪˈmiːn]
v
To cause someone to lose their dignity or the respect of others.
v
(archaic) To behave or conduct oneself in a particular way.
Morpheme Breakdown
de
mean
de
down
mean
common, low
Etymology
The verb "demean" is a fascinating example of a word formed within English by combining a classical prefix with a native Germanic root. The prefix "de-," borrowed from Latin, was attached to the adjective "mean," which in its older sense signified something common, lowly, or of inferior rank. The literal construction, "to make low or common," directly informs the modern meaning of lowering someone's dignity or social standing. It is distinct from the homograph "demean" (as in "demean oneself"), which is derived from Old French demener ("to conduct"), though the two have influenced each other over time. The primary modern sense solidifies the concept of a downward social or moral motion imposed upon an individual.
Analysis
Structure: de (down) + mean (common, low)
- de: A prefix of Latin origin meaning "down from, away, off, completely." In this word, it conveys the sense of "down" or "lowering."
- mean: From Middle English mēne, from Old English gemǣne ("common, public, general"). It carries the sense of something lowly, common, or of low social status.
Examples
He refused to demean himself by responding to the false accusations.
The manager's constant criticism served only to demean his staff.
It demeans the debate to resort to personal insults.