What does ABASE mean?

Parts of Speech

abase is a verb.

Definitions

To abase is to behave in a way that makes someone feel less important or to lower someones self-esteem. It can also mean to humble oneself or to lower the moral character of someone or something.

Pronunciations

• US: əˈbeɪs
• UK: əˈbeɪs

Origin and Usage

The word abase comes from the Old French word abaissier, which means "to lower." It was first used in the English language in the 14th century. The word is often used in a negative context to describe someone who is behaving badly or in a way that is not respectful towards others.

Synonyms

• humiliate
• degrade
• belittle
• disparage
• lower

Related Words

• abash
• abeam
• abide
• abler
• abuse

Example Sentences

• She felt abased by the way her boss spoke to her in front of her colleagues.
• He was abased by the public humiliation he faced after the scandal.
• The politicians reputation was abased by the corruption allegations.