'degrader' originates from the Latin 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'.

Initially, it meant 'to step down or lower in rank', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to reduce in quality or value'.