debuff

American  

[dee-buhf] / ˌdiˈbʌf /

noun

1. (in a video game) a category of spell, skill, or item that decreases characters’ attributes or abilities.

   Rather than fighting with them directly, the tarot cards are used for debuffs.

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verb (used with object)

1. (in a video game) to decrease a character’s or characters’ attributes or abilities with a spell, skill, or item.

   The goal of this build is to debuff enemies and then wade in with melee.

Etymology

Origin of debuff

First recorded in 2000–05; de- ( def. ) + buff ² ( def. )

Example Sentences

All consumables have the same buff or debuff.

From Slate • Dec. 23, 2020