Definition of degrade
- v. t. - To reduce from a higher to a lower rank or degree; to
lower in rank; to deprive of office or dignity; to strip of honors; as,
to degrade a nobleman, or a general officer.
- v. t. - To reduce in estimation, character, or reputation; to
lessen the value of; to lower the physical, moral, or intellectual
character of; to debase; to bring shame or contempt upon; to disgrace;
as, vice degrades a man.
- v. t. - To reduce in altitude or magnitude, as hills and
mountains; to wear down.
- v. i. - To degenerate; to pass from a higher to a lower type of
structure; as, a family of plants or animals degrades through this or
that genus or group of genera.