To reduce from a higher to a lower rank or degree; to lower in rank; to deprive of office or dignity; to strip of honors; as, to degrade a nobleman, or a general officer.

To reduce in estimation, character, or reputation; to lessen the value of; to lower the physical, moral, or intellectual character of; to debase; to bring shame or contempt upon; to disgrace; as, vice degrades a man.

To reduce in altitude or magnitude, as hills and mountains; to wear down.

To break down into simpler chemical forms.

The breakdown of a chemical compound into a less complex compound.

This is where a complex chemical (sprays for example) breaks down into simpler compounds to have a lesser effect on the environment over the long term.

Change or insert false signals or data into enemy information flow, either directly or indirectly. Inflict minimal injury to hardware. Examples include signal overrides/insertion, power cycling (turning power on and off at irregular intervals), and computer "lock-up." This action is not permanent and target systems will return to normal operation within a specified time frame, depending on the characteristics of the weapon. Some minor repairs may be required.