> ## Content Index
> Fetch the complete content index at: https://goodoil.news/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further.

# The BFD Word of the Day
- URL: https://goodoil.news/the-bfd-word-of-the-day-1554/
- Published: 2024-05-01T18:15:00.000Z
- Updated: 2024-02-29T17:28:03.000Z
- Author: David Theobald
- Tags: General, #wp, #wp-post, #Import 2024-06-28 02:24

The word for today is…

demean (verb, verb):

*verb*  
: to lower in character, status, or reputation

*verb*  
: to conduct or behave (oneself) usually in a proper manner

Source : [Merriam -Webster](https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/demean?ref=goodoil.news)

Etymology : There are two words spelled demean in English. One has a construction similar to its synonym, debase: where debase combines the prefix de- with an adjective base, meaning “low” or “vile,” demean applies de- to the adjective mean, meaning “inferior or contemptible.” The basic meaning the pair shares, “to lower in character or esteem,” is quite at odds with that of the other demean: “to conduct or behave oneself.” This demean comes from the Anglo-French verb demener (“to conduct”), and is generally used in formal contexts to specify a type of behavior, as in “he demeaned himself in a most unfriendly manner”; “she demeaned herself as befitting her station in life”; and “they knew not how to demean themselves in the king’s presence.” As such, it may be possible to demean someone for the way they demean themselves.

**If you enjoyed this BFD word of the day please consider sharing it with your friends and, especially, your children.**