DEMOTE Synonyms: 24 Similar and Opposite Words

demote

verb

di-ˈmōt

Definition of demote

as in to reduce

to bring to a lower grade or rank the court-martial's decision was to demote the officer responsible for the failed mission

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of demote With their postseason hopes dashed, Blashill demoted Burakovsky to the fourth line April 4 in Seattle while the coach experimented with lines to end the season. — Kalen Lumpkins, Chicago Tribune, 26 June 2026 Mayor Johnson went on to demote Brewer, who was chair of the CHA Board at the time, saying the process that led to Pettigrew's appointment violated state law. — Elyssa Kaufman, CBS News, 25 June 2026 Sanchez was never able to match that success though, and was eventually traded to the Philadelphia Eagles in 2014, where he was ultimately demoted to the role of backup quarterback. — Chris Spargo, PEOPLE, 29 June 2026 She was transferred against her wishes from ELAC to Pierce College in Woodland Hills in May 1989 and was demoted from journalism head to an instructor, according to Times reporting. — Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 27 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for demote

Recent Examples of Synonyms for demote

Verb

Derived from a Central African shrub, the drug's ability to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings were uncovered by accident, when Howard Lotsof, a 19-year old addicted to heroin, tried ibogaine out of curiosity in 1962.

— Gavin Escott, USA Today, 6 July 2026
Displaying tactical discipline and superior talent, the English national team defeated Mexico 3-2 with a lineup reduced to 10 men on Sunday night.

— Eduard Cauich, Los Angeles Times, 6 July 2026

Definition of reduce

Verb

In April, the Superior Court dismissed the three citations Hubbard received in May 2025 when no park ranger or city attorney appeared for the prosecution, his lawsuit states.

— Alex Wigglesworth, Los Angeles Times, 2 July 2026
Freeney did not dismiss the business side of the arrangement.

— Jackson Thompson, FOXNews.com, 1 July 2026

Definition of dismiss

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demos

demote

demoted

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“Demote.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/demote. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of demote

verb

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