Debase
Definition, Meaning & Examples
Pronunciation /dɪˈbeɪs/ · Part of speech verb
Quick meaning: Debase is a verb meaning (transitive) To lower in character, quality, or value; to degrade.
Meaning
(transitive) To lower in character, quality, or value; to degrade.
More Meanings
- (transitive, archaic) To lower in position or rank.
- (transitive) To lower the value of (a currency) by reducing the amount of valuable metal in the coins.
Example Sentences
And just as history will decide whether the leaders of today's world employed the atom to destroy the world or rebuild it for mankind's benefit, so will history decide whether today's broadcasters employed their powerful voice to enrich the people or to debase them.
Word Forms
- debases
- debasing
- debased
Synonyms for debase
Depending on context, synonyms include abase, avile, debauch, degrade, depreciate, devalue.
Antonyms for debase
Common opposites include enhance, enrich.
Related Words
Related dictionary entries include vitiate, demoralize, deprave, pervert, profane, adulterate.
Related Dictionary Tools
Sources & Attribution
FreeDictionaryAPI.com / Wiktionary · Original source · CC BY-SA 4.0
Dictionary data is provided by FreeDictionaryAPI.com and sourced from Wiktionary under its stated license.