debase

[ dih-beys ]

verb (used with object)

, de·based, de·bas·ing.

1. to reduce in quality or value; adulterate:

   They debased the value of the dollar.

   Synonyms: defile, pollute, contaminate, corrupt, vitiate, lower

2. to lower in rank, dignity, or significance:

   He wouldn't debase himself by doing manual labor.

   Synonyms: reduce, demean, abase, degrade

debase

/ dɪˈbeɪsɪdnɪs; dɪˈbeɪs /

verb

1. tr to lower in quality, character, or value, as by adding cheaper metal to coins; adulterate

Derived Forms

• deˈbasingly, adverb
• deˈbaser, noun
• deˈbasement, noun
• debasedness, noun

Other Words From

• de·base·ment noun
• de·bas·er noun
• de·bas·ing·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of debase¹

First recorded in 1555–65; de- + base ²; abase

Word History and Origins

Origin of debase¹

C16: see de- , base ²

Example Sentences

All she needed to do was extravagantly debase herself before Trump, who sat only a few yards away, eating up her submission.

From Salon

Far more than "unity" or the official "Make America Great Again" slogan of the convention, the prevailing theme holding this year's GOP shindig together is how much Republicans will debase themselves to please Donald Trump.

From Salon

It’s become like a cult, as the party seems eager to debase itself by shedding all its longstanding talk about the rule of law and personal responsibility — as well as any chances of winning here in Washington — to sink ever deeper into the muck of Trump.

From Seattle Times

Rather it is an alarming reminder of how Trump expects his followers to debase themselves to serve him.

From Salon

He sees it as something men inflict on women, to debase them.

From Salon

Related Words

• cheapen
• demean
• demoralize
• disgrace
• dishonor
• humiliate