demean¹

/dɪˈmiːn/

v.

cause to suffer a severe loss of dignity or respect.

▸ (demean oneself) do something that is beneath one's dignity.

C17: from de- + the adj. mean², on the pattern of debase.

demean²

/dɪˈmiːn/

v.

(demean oneself) archaic conduct oneself.

ME: from OFr. demener ‘to lead’.

以上來源於：《簡明牛津英語詞典》