Debauch: meaning, definitions and examples

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debauch

 

[ dɪˈbɔːtʃ ]

Verb / Noun
Context #1 | Verb

inappropriate behavior

To indulge in excessive and immoral behavior, such as drinking, partying, or promiscuity. Often associated with a lack of self-control and disregard for social norms.

Synonyms

corrupt, deprave, pervert.

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Word Description / Examples
debauch

Use this word when describing the act of leading someone into immoral behavior or excessive indulgence, often related to sexual activities or partying.

  • The once promising student was debauched by the allure of nightlife.
  • Years of debauch affected his health and character.
corrupt

This word is appropriate when talking about someone being dishonest or immoral, especially in a position of power or influence.

  • The judge was corrupt, taking bribes to rule in favor of certain individuals.
  • Power can often corrupt even the most ethical individuals.
deprave

This word should be used to describe a process or act that makes someone morally bad or wicked, often with deep moral implications.

  • The influence of violent movies is believed to deprave young minds.
  • She blamed society for his depraved behavior.
pervert

This word is used when referring to someone who distorts or misuses something, especially in a sexual context. It often has a strong negative connotation.

  • He tried to pervert the course of justice by lying in court.
  • Some people pervert the true meaning of freedom.

Examples of usage

  • He debauched himself with alcohol every weekend.
  • She was known for debauching young men at the nightclub.
  • The rock star's reputation was tarnished by his debauched lifestyle.
Context #2 | Noun

immoral act

An immoral or corrupt act, especially involving excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures. It can refer to a wild party or revelry characterized by excessive drinking and promiscuity.

Synonyms

corruption, debauchery, immorality.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
debauch

Typically used in literature and historical contexts to describe someone being led into excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures. It often implies a downfall in moral standards.

  • He was debauched by his new dissolute friends.
  • The once respectable man became debauched by his pursuit of carnal desires.
debauchery

Refers to excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures such as eating, drinking, and sexual activities. Often carries a negative connotation, hinting at a lifestyle lacking in moral constraints.

  • The movie depicts the debauchery of ancient Rome.
  • The bachelor party turned into a night of pure debauchery.
immorality

Used to describe behavior that goes against moral norms and principles. It is a general term more broadly applied to actions considered wrong or unethical.

  • The judge condemned the immorality of his actions.
  • She was troubled by the immorality she saw around her.
corruption

Used when talking about unethical behavior, especially in politics, business, or governance. It involves acts like bribery, fraud, and abusing power for personal gain.

  • The investigation exposed widespread corruption within the government.
  • The company fired the executive due to allegations of corruption.

Examples of usage

  • The debauch at the mansion lasted until dawn.
  • The scandal involved allegations of debauchery and corruption.
  • He was known for his debauches in the city's underground scene.

Translations

Translations of the word "debauch" in other languages:

🇵🇹 devassidão

🇮🇳 विलासिता

🇩🇪 Ausschweifung

🇮🇩 kebejatan

🇺🇦 розпуста

🇵🇱 rozpusta

🇯🇵 放蕩 (ほうとう)

🇫🇷 débauche

🇪🇸 depravación

🇹🇷 sefahat

🇰🇷 방탕

🇸🇦 فسق

🇨🇿 hýření

🇸🇰 zhýralosť

🇨🇳 堕落

🇸🇮 razvrat

🇮🇸 óæska

🇰🇿 азғындық

🇬🇪 გარყვნილება

🇦🇿 əxlaqsızlıq

🇲🇽 depravación

Etymology

The word 'debauch' originated in the late 16th century from French 'débaucher', ultimately derived from Latin 'de-' (away) and 'bāca' (barrack, camp). Originally, it referred to the act of luring someone away from their duty or allegiance. Over time, the meaning shifted to focus on excessive and immoral behavior. The word has retained its negative connotation of indulging in sensual pleasures to an extreme degree.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,523, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.