Degrade

Pronunciation: /dɪˈɡreɪd/

Definitions of degrade

verb to treat or regard with disrespect or contempt; to lower in quality or value

Example Sentences

A1 Leaving trash on the ground can degrade the environment.

A2 Using harsh chemicals can degrade the quality of the fabric.

B1 Continuous exposure to sunlight can degrade the paint on your car.

B2 Neglecting regular maintenance can degrade the performance of your computer.

C1 The constant criticism began to degrade her self-confidence.

C2 The company's unethical practices gradually degraded its reputation in the industry.

Examples of degrade in a Sentence

formal The chemicals in the water can degrade the quality of the soil over time.

informal Leaving your phone out in the sun can degrade the battery life.

slang Using cheap products on your hair can really degrade its condition.

figurative Gossiping about others can degrade your reputation in the long run.

Grammatical Forms of degrade

• past tense: degraded
• plural: degrades
• comparative: more degraded
• superlative: most degraded
• present tense: degrades
• future tense: will degrade
• perfect tense: has degraded
• continuous tense: is degrading
• singular: degrades
• positive degree: degrade
• infinitive: to degrade
• gerund: degrading
• participle: degraded

Origin and Evolution of degrade

First Known Use: 1250 year

Language of Origin: Latin

Story behind the word: The word 'degrade' originated from the Latin word 'degradare', which is a combination of 'de-' (down) and 'gradus' (step or grade).

Evolution of the word: Originally used in the 13th century to mean 'reduce in rank or status', the word 'degrade' has evolved to also include meanings such as 'lower in quality or value' and 'cause to deteriorate'.