mindmap root((降格)) abase suggests losing or voluntarily yielding up dignity or prestige: a fine stage actor who ~d himself by turning to television. demean suggests unsuitable behavior or association as the cause of loss of status: commercial endorsements ~ the Olympics. debase emphasizes loss of worth or quality: ~ a currency; and especially deterioration of moral standards: drunkenness has ~d the Mardi Gras. degrade suggests a downward step, sometimes in rank, more often in ethical stature, and typically implies a shameful or corrupt end: the public altercation ~d both candidates. humble frequently replaces degrade when the disgrace of a reduction in status is to be emphasized: they were delighted to see the bully ~d by a boy half his size. humiliate implies the severe wounding of one's pride and the causing of deep shame: ~d by his suggestive remarks.