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

“Trump has demeaned and debased just about anybody he could, from immigrants to minorities to women to those who are disabled,” he says.

From BBC

Other than that, to call these quadrennial Q&A sessions debates debases the moral and mental acuity of the viewing audience and the English language itself.

From Salon

There will be a new ball this season, the Nike Flight, which is "built with Aerowsculpt technology with grooves debased into the casing, to allow air to travel seamlessly around the ball, delivering truer flight".

From BBC

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

From Salon

The most debased and tragic is Jeff, who, with his wife, has worked at the fair for decades.

From New York Times

Related Words

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