demean etymology

Etymology:

• Middle English: demeinen, from Old French demaignier, from Medieval Latin disdominare, from Latin dis- ("apart, away") + dominare ("to rule, control")

Meaning:

• To treat (someone) with contempt or disrespect
• To reduce the status or importance of someone or something

Origin:

The word "demean" originates from the Latin phrase "dis-dominare," which means "to take away authority or control." In the context of the English language, it came to be used as a verb in the 14th century to describe the haughty behavior of those in positions of power, who would "demean" or belittle others in order to assert their authority.

Over time, the meaning of "demean" has evolved to include not only actions motivated by pride or superiority, but also those that simply show a lack of respect or consideration for others. In this sense, "demeaning" behavior can range from subtle snubs and insults to overt acts of rudeness and humiliation.

demean relate terms

• debase

  Etymology The word debase comes from the Old French word debasser which means to lo

• base

  Etymology Greek basis a foundation a base Meaning A fundamental or supporting

• demeaning

  Etymology Demeaning originates from the Old English word gemana meaning to reduce

• demean

  Etymology Middle English demeinen from Old French demaignier from Medieval Latin dis

• demeanor

  Etymology Demeanor originates from Old French demeiner to behave conduct oneself

• mean

  Etymology Old English mǣne Proto Germanic mainiz Proto Indo European mei to think

• degrade

  Etymology The word degrade comes from the late Latin degradare which means to step

• abase

  Etymology The word abase comes from the Old French word abasser which in turn comes

• chagrin

  Etymology The word chagrin comes from the Old French word chagriner meaning to anno

• mortify

  Etymology The word mortify originates from the Latin word mortificare which is deriv

• reduce

  Etymology Latin reducere from re back ducere to lead Middle French reduir

• humble

  Etymology The word humble comes from the Latin word humilis which means low or on

• take

  Etymology Etymology is the study of the origin and history of words It seeks to trace t

• down

  Etymology The word down has origins in several Germanic languages Old English dun