debauchery

American  

[dih-baw-chuh-ree] / dɪˈbɔ tʃə ri /

noun

plural

debaucheries

1. excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures; intemperance.

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

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Usage

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.

Etymology

Origin of debauchery

First recorded in 1635–45; debauch + -ery

Explanation

Debauchery is a noun meaning crazy partying and wild nights, usually accompanied by a lot of alcohol. So you probably don't want to engage in any kind of debauchery the night before an exam. Debauchery is all about indulging in some of life's pleasures — overindulging, in fact. It stems from the Middle French word debaucher, which means to “entice from work or duty.” So imagine workers being tempted from another day at the office by the promise of a wild bender in Vegas. Or college kids putting down the books and heeding the siren call of the frat party downstairs.

Example Sentences

He also promised to release the Jeffrey Epstein files, which QAnon conspiracists and others believe prove elite debauchery, including pedophilia.

From Salon • Mar. 29, 2026

Yet, despite the agonizing debauchery and hedonism spewing from movies, TV and music, recent events and proclamations from mainstream stars show just how brilliantly light can break through even the darkest corners of our culture.

From Washington Times • Oct. 4, 2023

Mehringer’s motion, which has been the talk of the department for weeks, asserts a culture of debauchery and favoritism that dates back years and reaches into the LAPD’s upper echelons.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 9, 2023

The protagonist, a Singaporean student named Lu Zhao, spends the summer with his wealthy cousin Tommy in Long Island, and just as in “The Great Gatsby,” increasing layers of American capitalist-laced debauchery ensue.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 3, 2023

Dubbed the nation’s most eligible bachelor, Vanderbilt eschewed the debauchery that would have tempted other men fresh out of their teens and into a bottomless bank account.

From "Seabiscuit: An American Legend" by Laura Hillenbrand

Related Words

• revelry
• seduction