'degrade' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'degradare,' where 'de-' meant 'down' and 'gradus' meant 'step.'

'degradare' transformed into the Old French word 'degrader,' and eventually became the modern English word 'degrade' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to reduce in rank or status,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'lowering quality or breaking down chemically.'