Vocabulary Spotlight
Debauched
Part of Speech: Adjective
Definition: Indulging in or characterized by excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures or immoral behavior.
“The novel portrays the life of a debauched aristocrat lost in luxury and vice.”
Pronunciation
[dih-bawcht]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Depraved
Decadent
Immoral
Dissolute
Antonyms
Moral
Upright
Pure
Noble
Related Words
Debauch (verb)
Debasing (adjective)
Word Origin
“Debauched” evolved from the verb “debauch,” meaning to corrupt or seduce away from virtue, originating from the French “débaucher,” meaning “to lead astray.”
Word Family
Verb: Debauch – To corrupt morally or lead away from virtue.
Noun: Debauchery – Excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures.
Adjective: Debauched – Indulging in immoral or excessive behavior.
Mnemonics
Think “Debauched” as “De-badged” – someone who loses their badge of honor by being morally corrupt.
Another mnemonic: Imagine someone “botched” by vice, depicting a debauched life.
Industry-specific Usage
Psychology
Psychologists study the causes and effects of debauched lifestyles to understand social deviance and addiction.
Literature
In literature, debauched characters are often portrayed as morally corrupt, serving as cautionary figures.
History
Historical accounts sometimes describe the downfall of empires or leaders as resulting from a debauched lifestyle.
In Context
In society, debauched behavior is generally frowned upon as it signifies a rejection of moral standards. In media, debauched characters are often used to explore the consequences of a life led astray by excess and indulgence.