Vocabulary Spotlight
Debase
Part of Speech: Verb
Definition: To reduce the quality or value of something; to degrade or lower in status.
“He argued that reality TV shows debase the quality of entertainment.”
Pronunciation
[dih-beys]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Diminish
Lower
Corrupt
Tarnish
Antonyms
Enhance
Improve
Uplift
Honor
Related Words
Debasing (adjective)
Debaser (noun)
Word Origin
“Debase” originated from Middle English, combining the prefix “de-” meaning “down” and “base,” indicating lower status or value. It originally referred to lowering the value of currency by mixing in cheaper metals.
Word Family
Noun: Debasement – The act of reducing value or quality.
Adjective: Debasing – Tending to lower in quality or dignity.
Noun: Debaser – One who or that which reduces value or quality.
Mnemonics
Think of “Debase” as “De” + “Base” – to lower something from its base level or quality.
Another mnemonic: Imagine degrading something by moving it “down to base level.”
Industry-specific Usage
Economics
In finance, debasing can refer to devaluing currency by reducing the precious metal content, leading to inflation.
Art
Critics may claim that certain forms of mass media debase the quality of artistic expression.
Politics
In politics, the term debase is used to describe actions that diminish trust in governmental institutions.
In Context
Debasing occurs in various aspects of life when quality or integrity is sacrificed for lesser ends. In academia, standards can be “debased” if rigor is compromised. Socially, behaviors may be seen as debasing when they undermine respect or values in communities.