\De*grad"ed\, a.
1. Reduced in rank, character, or reputation; debased;
   sunken; low; base.
         The Netherlands . . . were reduced practically to a
         very degraded condition.              --Motley.
2. (Biol.) Having the typical characters or organs in a
   partially developed condition, or lacking certain parts.
         Some families of plants are degraded dicotyledons.
                                               --Dana.
3. [Cf. F. degr['e] step.] (Her.) Having steps; -- said of a
   cross each of whose extremities finishes in steps growing
   larger as they leave the center; -- termed also on
   degrees.