Degrade

de-grad', v. t. To reduce to a lower rank or degree; to deprive of office or dignity; to reduce in character or reputation; abase. (Geol.) To wear down, as hills and mountains. — Degrad'ed, p. a. Reduced in rank, character, etc.; sunken; low; base. {Nat. Hist.) Presenting the typical characters in an imperfect condition. — Degrad'ingly, adv. — Degradation, n. Act of, or state of being, etc.; diminution of strength, efficacy, or value. {Geol.) A gradual wearing down or wasting, as of rocks, banks, etc., by the action of water, frost, etc.