Debauching: meaning, definitions and examples

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debauching

 

[dɪˈbɔːtʃɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

moral decline

Debauching refers to the act of leading someone away from virtue or propriety, often through indulgence in excessive pleasures or immoral behaviors. It is commonly associated with a loss of moral integrity and self-control as individuals engage in activities deemed sinful or corrupt. This word typically suggests a negative connotation, indicating a degradation of character through hedonistic pursuits. Debauchery can manifest in various forms, including drunkenness, promiscuity, and other excessive indulgences.

Synonyms

corruption, debauchery, dissipation.

Examples of usage

  • His lifestyle was characterized by debauching every weekend at lavish parties.
  • She was accused of debauching the youth of the town with her reckless behavior.
  • The novel depicts the protagonist's debauching journey through the nightlife of Paris.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • Originating from the French word 'déboucher,' it meant to unstop or unleash, which evolved into the idea of indulging excessively.
  • The word became popular in English literature during the 17th century, related to activities associated with excess and indulgence.
  • While it has a negative connotation today, it initially had a more neutral meaning linked to fermentation in winemaking.

Literature

  • Famous works, such as those by Shakespeare, often reference characters who engage in debauching to highlight moral lessons or the consequences of excess.
  • In 'The Great Gatsby,' characters famously indulge in debauching behavior, reflecting the hedonistic culture of the 1920s.
  • Classical literature often highlights the tension between debauching and virtue, using it as a narrative device to explore human nature.

Psychology

  • Engaging in extreme indulgence can lead to temporary pleasure but may result in guilt or harm to mental health over time.
  • Research shows that people who frequently indulge in debauching behaviors often have underlying issues or seek to escape from stress.
  • Group dynamics can heavily influence debauching behavior, often leading individuals to partake in risks they might avoid alone.

Cultural References

  • Various cultures have rituals celebrating debauching, such as Mardi Gras in New Orleans, which emphasizes colorful, extravagant celebrations.
  • In the context of music festivals, debauching is often depicted in lyrics and themes, symbolizing freedom and youthful rebellion.
  • Many films from the '80s and '90s feature characters embracing debauching as part of the coming-of-age story, emphasizing rebellion against social norms.

Public Health

  • Debauching behavior, especially related to alcohol and drugs, can lead to public health issues, including addiction and disease spread.
  • Public campaigns often address the balance between enjoying life and the risks associated with excessive indulgence.
  • Understanding the social factors that contribute to debauching can help in creating programs aimed at reducing negative behaviors in communities.

Translations

Translations of the word "debauching" in other languages:

🇵🇹 debauchando

🇮🇳 विषयासक्त करना

🇩🇪 Debauchery

🇮🇩 pergaulan bebas

🇺🇦 розпусту

🇵🇱 debauch

🇯🇵 放蕩

🇫🇷 débauche

🇪🇸 debauche

🇹🇷 şehvet düşkünlüğü

🇰🇷 방탕

🇸🇦 انحطاط

🇨🇿 debauchery

🇸🇰 debauchery

🇨🇳 放荡

🇸🇮 razuzdanost

🇮🇸 sýslumannaskap

🇰🇿 бұзақылық

🇬🇪 ზღვარი

🇦🇿 debauchery

🇲🇽 debauche

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,311, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.