transitive verb degraded -·grad′ed, degrading -·grad′·ing

1. to lower in rank or status, as in punishing; demote
2. to lower or corrupt in quality, moral character, or value; debase
3. to bring into dishonor or contempt
4. Chem. to convert (an organic compound) into a simpler compound by removal of one or more parts of the molecule; decompose
5. Geol. to lower (a land surface) by erosion

Etymology: ME degraden < OFr degrader < LL degradare, to reduce in rank < L de-, down + gradus: see de- & grade

intransitive verb

1. Rare to sink to a lower grade or type
2. to be converted into a simpler compound or compounds; decompose