abases
Strips of dignity
Abases is the third-person singular form of abase, meaning to lower in rank, status, or esteem—typically used reflexively.
Someone who abases themselves humbles or degrades themselves before another: He abases himself before the king.
The word carries connotations of excessive or undignified submission.
Lower in standing
- degradeLower in standing
- shamePainful awareness of failure
- disgraceLoss of honor
- mortifyCause severe embarrassment
dishonor · embarrass · humble · belittle · disparage · denigrate · discredit · stigmatize
demean
Lower in standing
mortify · dishonor · embarrass · humble · belittle · disparage · denigrate · discredit · stigmatize · discomfit
diminish
To make smaller
- depreciateLose value over time
- lessenReduce in degree
- reduceMake smaller in degree
undermine · devalue · downgrade · cheapen · deprecate · minimize · detract · slight · snub · disdain
bow
Respectful forward inclination
capitulate · submit · relent · acquiesce · concede · cower · cringe · truckle · fawn · toady