English Word · Intermediate
demean
To mortify
Pronunciation: /dɪˈmiːn/
Meaning
To lower one's own dignity or status.
Example
It was, of course, Mrs. Sedley's opinion that her son would demean himself by a marriage with an artist's daughter.
It was, of course, Mrs. Sedley's opinion that her son would demean himself by a marriage with an artist's daughter.
Practice tips
- Practice demean out loud — read the pronunciation guide above and repeat.
- Use it in your own sentence today; reuse beats rereading.
- Pay attention to context: this English word is for intermediate-level learners.