Downgrade (verb)

1. To reduce the rank, status, quality, or value of something.
2. To lower the credit rating of a security or company.

Origin:

Late 19th century, from down + grade.

Examples:

1. The company was downgraded by the rating agency due to weak financial performance.
2. The government downgraded the security clearance of the former employee due to suspicious activities.
3. The university downgraded the department's budget in response to declining enrollment.
4. The art museum downgraded the authenticity of the painting after further examination revealed signs of forgery.
5. The film was downgraded from a blockbuster to a moderate box office success due to mixed reviews and lackluster audience response.