degrade
verb (used with object)
to lower in dignity or estimation; bring into contempt.
were degrading
-
past progressiveof degrade.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The IOC used visual inspections in the 1960s, but there were concerns they were degrading and invasive, before mandatory chromosome-based cheek swab tests were introduced.
From BBC ● Aug. 31, 2025
This provided further evidence that the native microbes were degrading the biodegradable straws, whereas the non-biodegradable straws likely persist in the ocean.
From Science Daily ● Jan. 30, 2024
The Commerce Department said the metals were a national security risk because they were degrading the American industrial base.
From New York Times ● Mar. 22, 2018
But those moments were degrading and frustrating and isolating — after all, I just wanted to do my job, like anyone else — and so I never shared those details.
From New York Times ● Oct. 19, 2017
He despised the rulers who were degrading France, and placing a stigma upon popular liberty by their ignorance and their violence, and he resolved upon their overthrow.
From Josephine Makers of History by John S. C. (John Stevens Cabot) Abbott
