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Decadence: meaning, definitions and examples

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decadence

 

[ ˈdɛkədəns ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

moral decline

Decadence refers to a state of moral or cultural decline as characterized by excessive indulgence in pleasure or luxury. This term is often used to describe societies or cultures that are in decline due to their excessiveness and moral deterioration. It highlights the idea that as civilizations become more affluent, they may lose their sense of purpose and become more focused on immediate gratification. Decadence can manifest in various forms, including art, literature, and social behavior, often signaling a departure from traditional values.

Synonyms

corruption, decay, decline, deterioration, luxury

Examples of usage

  • The decadence of the Roman Empire led to its eventual downfall.
  • His lifestyle was marked by decadence, reflecting his disregard for societal norms.
  • The film explores themes of decadence and moral depravity in the elite class.
  • Critics argue that the decadence of modern media influences public perception.
  • The party was a display of wealth and decadence that shocked the guests.

Translations

Translations of the word "decadence" in other languages:

🇵🇹 decadência

🇮🇳 अवसाद

🇩🇪 Dekadenz

🇮🇩 dekadensi

🇺🇦 декаденція

🇵🇱 dekadencja

🇯🇵 デカダンス

🇫🇷 décadence

🇪🇸 decadencia

🇹🇷 çürüme

🇰🇷 퇴폐

🇸🇦 الانحطاط

🇨🇿 dekadence

🇸🇰 dekadencia

🇨🇳 颓废

🇸🇮 dekadenca

🇮🇸 siðdegja

🇰🇿 декаденция

🇬🇪 დეკადენცია

🇦🇿 dekadans

🇲🇽 decadencia

Etymology

The word 'decadence' comes from the Latin word 'decadentia', which translates to 'decline' or 'decay'. This Latin term is derived from 'decadere', meaning 'to fall down'. The concept emerged prominently in the 19th century as a cultural reflection on the perceived decline of European societies, particularly in relation to art and literature. The term gained particular popularity in discussions of the late 19th-century French intellectual and artistic movements, which often emphasized themes of decay, moral decline, and the superficiality of modern life. The association between decadence and luxury also highlights the tension between material wealth and moral integrity, making it a critical term in cultural and sociological analyses.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,337, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.