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debase

verb

/dɪˈbeɪs/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of debase

To lower the quality, value, or dignity of something, often by corrupting or adulterating it in some way.
"The artist refused to debase her craft by creating commercial work."

Detailed meaning of debase

When someone debases something, they diminish its worth or integrity, typically by introducing elements or practices that detract from its original, pure, or respectable state. Debasement can occur in various contexts, such as finance, where debasing currency means reducing its value by adding impurities or printing excessive amounts, or in discussions of ethics, where debasing actions might involve compromising moral principles or integrity. This term underscores the idea of tarnishing or degrading the essential nature or value of something, often resulting in a loss of trust, respect, or authenticity.

Example sentences containing debase

1. The dictator sought to debase the currency to maintain control.
2. The politician's lies and scandals debased the public's trust in him.
3. The company's cost-cutting measures debased the quality of their products.
4. The bully tried to debase his victim by mocking their appearance.
5. The gossip magazine's articles were designed to debase celebrities.
6. The vandal's graffiti debased the beauty of the historic building.

History and etymology of debase

The verb 'debase' has its origins in Old French, where it was spelled as 'debas.' It is formed by combining 'de,' meaning 'down from' or 'away from,' and 'bas,' meaning 'low' or 'base.' In essence, 'debase' originally meant to lower something from a higher or more elevated state to a lower or more inferior one. Over time, this term found its way into English and came to signify the act of lowering the quality, value, or dignity of something, often by corrupting or adulterating it in some way. The etymology of 'debase' underscores the notion of bringing something down from a higher position to a lower one, emphasizing the negative transformation or degradation associated with the word.

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Further usage examples of debase

1. The use of profanity in public can debase the conversation.
2. The plagiarist's actions debased the integrity of academia.
3. The cheating athlete's behavior debased the spirit of fair competition.
4. The unethical businessman's practices debased the industry's reputation.
5. The rude customer's behavior debased the restaurant's atmosphere.
6. Counterfeiting money can debase a nation's currency, eroding trust.
7. The scandal threatened to debase his reputation and legacy.
8. To debase art with commercialism is a disservice to creativity.
9. Corrupt leaders can debase the ideals and aspirations of a nation.
10. Advertisers often debase genuine emotions for profit, manipulating feelings.
11. The use of inferior materials can debase the product's quality, disappointing customers.
12. Some argue that reality TV shows debase culture, celebrating shallowness.
13. To debase oneself for personal gain is unethical and undermines integrity.
14. The goal is to elevate, not debase, public discourse through meaningful dialogue.
15. Manipulative tactics can debase the integrity of a debate, hindering understanding.
16. Greed can debase even the noblest of intentions, leading to corruption.
17. Deceptive marketing practices can debase consumer trust, harming brands.
18. Critics claim that certain films debase societal values, glorifying violence.
19. The decision to cut corners can debase a project's integrity, risking safety.
20. Some feel that social media can debase meaningful connections, promoting superficiality.
21. Scandals can debase the image of a respected institution, tarnishing its reputation.
22. Fraudulent schemes debase the financial industry's reputation, damaging trust.
23. To debase one's character through lies is regrettable, hurting relationships.
24. The choice to plagiarize can debase an academic career, leading to consequences.
25. Dishonesty can debase the trust within a relationship, causing rifts.