Demeaning

Demeaning is an adjective describing something that lowers someone's dignity, respect, or status. It involves treating someone as though they are less valuable or capable than they are, often through belittling remarks, condescending behavior, or actions that undermine their sense of self-worth. demeaning behavior can be intentional or unintentional, but its effect is consistently damaging, eroding a person's confidence and creating a hostile or uncomfortable environment. It often involves an abuse of power or position and can manifest in various forms, from subtle microaggressions to overt acts of humiliation. Ultimately, a demeaning act strips a person of their inherent worth and undermines their sense of autonomy.

Demeaning meaning with examples

• His condescending tone and constant interruptions during the meeting were incredibly demeaning, making her feel like her ideas weren't valued or even heard.
• The manager's public criticism of the employee's performance, highlighting every mistake in front of colleagues, was a demeaning display of power.
• She found the repetitive, unskilled tasks assigned to her after years of experience to be deeply demeaning, questioning her value to the company.
• Being constantly questioned and doubted by her partner, even about minor decisions, created a demeaning atmosphere in their relationship that damaged her self-esteem.