What does it mean to 'degrade' someone?

To 'degrade' someone means to lower their dignity or esteem. This often involves treating them with disrespect or belittlement, which can have negative effects on their self-worth and social standing. In various contexts, degradation can occur through verbal insults, exclusion, or actions that undermine an individual's value in the eyes of others or themselves. The term is often used in discussions about social interactions, authority dynamics, and emotional well-being, highlighting how important it is to foster respectful and supportive environments instead.