abase

abase
/;;be;s/

Definition: To lower in rank, office, prestige, or esteem; to humble or belittle.

Origin: Middle English, from Anglo-French abaisier, from a- (from) + baisier (to lower, to bring down).

Example: The manager's harsh criticism served only to abase the employee in front of the entire team.

To "abase" someone means to humiliate or bring them down in status or dignity. When a person is abased, they often experience a profound sense of shame or embarrassment. This act can manifest in various ways, such as through verbal denigration, public shaming, or any behavior that diminishes the individual’s self-worth. Humiliation can have lasting emotional effects, leading to feelings of inadequacy or resentment. In social contexts, abasing behaviors can disrupt relationships and foster a toxic atmosphere, making it crucial to promote respect and dignity among individuals to prevent such negative interactions.