1. to cause someone to lose dignity or respect; to degrade or humiliate
Usage: third person singular present tense of ‘demean’
2. to behave or conduct oneself in a particular way
Usage: formal; reflexive use with ‘oneself’

Examples

• His constant criticism demeans his employees and hurts morale.
• She refuses to accept work that demeans her professional status.
• The coach’s harsh language demeans the players rather than motivating them.
• He demeans himself with such petty behavior.
• The ambassador always demeans herself with great dignity at formal events.
• Such treatment demeans the office of the presidency.
• The way he demeans others reveals his own insecurity.