To deprive of rank, dignity, or position; to reduce from a state of honor or power.
From Middle English dis- (reversal/negation prefix) + state (from Latin status 'condition, standing'). Originally used in political contexts to describe removal from office or social status.
This word appears in Shakespeare's era to describe what happens when a king is dethroned—it's about losing your 'state' (your official position and dignity), which is why 'estate' and 'state' are cousins.
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