debuff

[ dee-buhf ]

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.

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of debuff¹

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