Debase

Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/dɪˈbeɪs/

Definitions

1. To reduce in quality, value, or dignity; to degrade.
2. To lower the moral or intellectual character of someone.
3. To reduce the purity or fineness of a substance, especially by adding inferior elements.

Usage Examples

• "The politician was accused of trying to debase the values of the nation."
• "He refused to debase himself by lying to his employer."
• "The government was criticized for debasing the currency by reducing the gold content."

Etymology

From Middle English "debasen," from Old French "de-," meaning "down" + "bas," meaning "low." The term evolved in English to indicate lowering in status or quality.

Synonyms

• Degrade
• Corrupt
• Demean
• Lower
• Cheapen

Antonyms

• Enhance
• Improve
• Elevate
• Uplift
• Strengthen

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• British English: /dɪˈbeɪs/
• American English: /dɪˈbeɪs/

Historical Usage

Historically, "debase" was widely used in reference to the reduction of the value of currency by mixing it with less precious metals. Over time, it came to refer more broadly to lowering the quality or dignity of people, concepts, or materials.

Cultural Nuances

In modern usage, "debase" often has moral or ethical implications, used to describe the corruption of values or principles. In financial contexts, it can refer to the dilution of currency or assets.

More Information

The term "debase" is frequently used in political, economic, and social discussions to describe actions that lower the standard of something once considered valuable. In literature, it appears in critiques of moral decay and ethical compromise.