The word “degrading” is often used when we talk about something that lowers respect, dignity, or value. In simple words, it means making someone or something feel less important or respected.
In this article, you will learn the meaning, synonyms, and antonyms of degrading with short and clear examples.
Degrading Meaning
The word degrading comes from the verb “degrade”, which means to treat someone or something as if they have no value or importance.
It often describes actions or words that hurt someone’s pride or reduce their status.
Example:
It is degrading to shout at employees in public.
Definition of Degrading
Degrading (adjective): something that makes a person feel ashamed, insulted, or less respected.
Synonym of Degrading
Here are some common synonyms of degrading with meanings for better understanding:
| Synonym | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Humiliating | Making someone feel embarrassed or ashamed |
| Dishonouring | Taking away someone’s respect or reputation |
| Shameful | Causing a feeling of guilt or embarrassment |
| Disgraceful | Bringing a loss of respect or honour |
| Embarrassing | Making someone feel uncomfortable or awkward |
| Demeaning | Showing a lack of respect or value |
| Insulting | Being rude or offensive to someone |
| Abasing | Making someone feel low in status or pride |
- It was a humiliating experience to be scolded in front of others.
- Treating workers unfairly is demeaning.
Antonym of Degrading
Here are the antonyms of degrading — words with the opposite meaning:
| Antonym | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Honourable | Full of respect and pride |
| Respectful | Showing care and regard for others |
| Admirable | Deserving respect and praise |
| Dignified | Calm, serious, and showing self-respect |
| Noble | Having high moral qualities and respect |
| Praiseworthy | Worthy of appreciation or respect |
- Her dignified behaviour impressed everyone.
- Helping the poor is an honourable act.
Use of Degrading in Different Contexts
1. Social Context:
Used when talking about disrespect or unfair treatment.
It’s degrading to ignore someone because of their background.
2. Environmental Context:
Used for damage to nature or the environment.
Pollution is degrading the quality of our rivers and soil.
3. Emotional Context:
Used for feelings of embarrassment or shame.
Losing in front of everyone felt degrading to him.
Summary on Synonym and Antonym of Degrading
| Word | Type | Simple Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Degrading | Adjective | Causing loss of respect | It was a degrading act. |
| Humiliating | Synonym | Causing embarrassment | His comment was humiliating. |
| Dignified | Antonym | Full of respect and honour | She handled it in a dignified way. |
In short:
The word “degrading” shows loss of respect or dignity.
Its synonyms express shame or disrespect, while its antonyms show honour and respect.
Learning these words helps you speak more clearly and politely in different situations.
FAQs about Synonym and Antonym of Degrading
What is the main meaning of degrading?
It means making someone feel less respected or valued.
What type of word is degrading?
It is an adjective, describing something that reduces dignity or respect.
What are two strong synonyms of degrading?
Humiliating and demeaning.
What is the opposite of degrading?
Honourable or dignified.
Can “degrading” be used for the environment?
Yes, for example: “Plastic waste is degrading the ocean.”
The word degrading helps describe things that lower value or respect. By learning its synonyms and antonyms, you can use richer vocabulary and speak naturally in daily English.
Always try to use positive words that build respect instead of degrading ones.
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