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Debased Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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debased

[dษชหˆbeษชst ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in finance

To reduce the value or quality of something, typically by adding inferior or impure substances.

Synonyms

cheapen, degrade, dilute.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
debased

Use 'debased' when you want to emphasize that something has lost its value, quality, or moral integrity. It's often used in serious contexts to describe something that has been corrupted or made inferior.

  • The once-respected leader's reputation was debased by his involvement in the scandal
  • The quality of the product has been debased through the use of inferior materials
degrade

Degrade often carries a negative connotation and is used when something or someone is brought down to a lower level of quality, dignity, or value. It can describe physical, moral, or emotional decline.

  • Pollution is degrading the environment at an alarming rate
  • The employee felt degraded by the manager's harsh criticism
dilute

This word should be used when talking about weakening or thinning something, typically by adding another substance. It can also be metaphorical, referring to weakening the effectiveness or value of something.

  • Adding too much water will dilute the paint, making it less vibrant
  • The company's brand was diluted by too many product lines
cheapen

This word is commonly used to describe making something appear or become less valuable, often through poor treatment or low-quality additions. It can be used in both material and immaterial contexts.

  • Adding too many flashy decorations to the dress has cheapened its elegant look
  • His constant use of slang tends to cheapen the conversation

Examples of usage

  • The company debased the currency by adding cheaper metals to the coins.
  • The politician's actions debased the integrity of the government.
Context #2 | Verb

in morality

To lower the moral character of someone or something; to corrupt.

Synonyms

corrupt, deprave, pervert.

Examples of usage

  • The explicit lyrics debased the reputation of the artist.
  • The abusive behavior debased the relationship between the two friends.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'debased' comes from the word 'base,' meaning lower in quality or value, and has its roots in the Middle English 'debase,' which meant to lower in rank or dignity.
  • In the past, coins were often 'debased' by mixing in cheaper metals, making the money less valuable than before.

Economics

  • Debasement of currency has been a historical tactic used by governments to pay off debts, often leading to inflation and economic instability.
  • The Roman Empire experienced significant debasement of its currency, leading to loss of trust and economic issues during its decline.

Literature

  • The idea of things being debased is a common theme in literature, symbolizing moral decline, such as in Shakespeare's works where characters often reflect on the degradation of values.
  • In George Orwell's '1984,' the concept of language being debased reflects the loss of individual thought and truth in society.

Psychology

  • Debasement can extend to self-image; when individuals perceive themselves as less capable or valued, it can affect their mental health and self-esteem.
  • Social comparisons often lead to feelings of being debased, where people feel inferior when they compare their lives to others who seem more successful.

Art and Culture

  • In modern art discussions, some critics argue that certain artistic movements have 'debased' the traditional standards of beauty and technique.
  • The term is sometimes used to critique trends in popular culture that are seen as lowering artistic or moral standards.

Origin of 'debased'

The word 'debased' originated from the Old French word 'debas' which means 'to lower in rank or value'. The term has been used in English since the late 16th century. Over the years, 'debased' has been associated with the act of reducing the quality or value of something, whether it be in a financial or moral sense.

See also: abase, base, baseball, based, baseless, baselessly, basement, basic, basin, basis, debase, debasement.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,010, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.