self-abasement
UK: ˌself əˈbeɪsmənt | US: ˌself əˈbeɪsmənt
n. the act of degrading or humiliating oneself
n. excessive humility or self-denigration
The word combines "self," from Old English "self" (oneself), and "abasement," derived from "abase" (to lower in rank or dignity). "Abase" originates from Old French "abaisser" (to lower), from Latin "bassus" (low). The suffix "-ment" forms nouns indicating an action or result. Together, "self-abasement" vividly depicts the act of voluntarily lowering oneself, often to an extreme degree.
His constant self-abasement made it difficult for others to respect him.
Religious rituals sometimes involve acts of self-abasement to demonstrate devotion.
She mistook self-abasement for humility, not realizing it harmed her self-esteem.
The leader’s self-abasement before the crowd was seen as a strategic move.
Healthy humility differs from self-abasement, which often stems from insecurity.