debase

[dih-beys]

verb (used with object)

debased, debasing 

1. to reduce in quality or value; adulterate.

   They debased the value of the dollar.

   Synonyms: defile, pollute, contaminate, corrupt, vitiate, lower

2. to lower in rank, dignity, or significance.

   He wouldn't debase himself by doing manual labor.

   Synonyms: reduce, demean, abase, degrade

debase

/ dɪˈbeɪsɪdnɪs, dɪˈbeɪs /

verb

1. (tr) to lower in quality, character, or value, as by adding cheaper metal to coins; adulterate

Other Word Forms

• debasement noun
• debaser noun
• debasingly adverb
• debasedness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of debase¹

First recorded in 1555–65; de- + base ²; abase

Word History and Origins

Origin of debase¹

C16: see _de- , _base ²

Example Sentences

The late Roman Empire undermined its commercial economy through centralization, regulation and debasing the currency.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

Dismissing the case, Mr Justice Chamberlain said Yaxley-Lennon's own barrister had accepted there was no evidence his client had been segregated "for the purpose of breaking his resistance or humiliating or debasing him".

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But Kidman isn’t debasing herself or regressing just for the sick sight of it all.

Read more on Salon

As the string score starts having palpitations, “Babygirl” threatens to debase itself by becoming a throwback thriller.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Other than that, to call these quadrennial Q&A sessions debates debases the moral and mental acuity of the viewing audience and the English language itself.

Read more on Salon

Related Words

• cheapen 
• demean 
• demoralize 
• disgrace 
• dishonor 
• humiliate