debauchery

[dih-baw-chuh-ree]

noun

plural

debaucheries 

1. excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures; intemperance.

2. Archaic.,  seduction from duty, allegiance, or virtue.

Word History and Origins

Origin of debauchery¹

First recorded in 1635–45; debauch + -ery

Related Words

• revelry 
• seduction 

When To Use

What does debauchery mean?

Debauchery is behavior considered excessively decadent, indulgent, and depraved. It’s especially used to collectively refer to drug use, excessive drinking, promiscuous sex, and the kind of uninhibited activity that happens at wild parties.Debauchery has traditionally been used in a negative way by those who condemn it as immoral or sinful. But it is also used in a somewhat ironic way by those who engage in such activity to celebrate it or make it seem fun.Example: Hair metal bands in the ’80s were notorious for their backstage debauchery.