Pronunciation: [dɪbˈe͡ɪs] (IPA) 
The word "debase" (/dɪˈbeɪs/) is spelled with a "d" followed by the digraph "eb", which represents the sound /ɛ/ in English. The letter "a" is then added, representing the short vowel sound /ə/. Finally, the letter "s" is added, representing the sound /s/. The word means to reduce the quality or value of something, often through immoral actions. Careful attention to spelling is important to ensure clear communication in written English.
Debase, as a verb, refers to the act of lowering the value, quality, or dignity of something or someone. It involves reducing or diminishing the worth, status, or importance of a person, idea, belief, principle, or object. When one debases something, they tarnish its reputation, credibility, or authority.
This term commonly describes actions that lead to undermining the moral, ethical, or social standards of a thing or individual. It includes various actions such as corrupting, demeaning, or degrading. Debase is often associated with devaluing currency, where the worth of money is intentionally reduced through diluting it with inferior materials or inflating its supply.
In a figurative sense, debasing can refer to the act of degrading or humiliating someone's character, integrity, or reputation by subjecting them to ridicule, scorn, or disgrace. This can occur through malicious gossip, slander, or spreading false rumors.
The term is usually employed when discussing ethical, moral, or social matters, emphasizing the negative impact on society or the integrity of the subject being debased. It is commonly used in fields such as philosophy, politics, economics, and sociology, where the discussion revolves around the consequences of actions that lower the value or respect given to certain individuals, groups, principles, or concepts. Overall, debasing represents a process of reducing worth, honor, or esteem through actions that erode or corrode the existing perception of value or dignity.
To reduce from a higher to a lower state; to reduce or lower in quality, purity, or value; to adulterate; to degrade.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "debase" originated from the combination of two Latin words: "de" and "basus". The prefix "de" expresses the idea of "down" or "away", while "basus" means "low" or "lowly". The Latin word "debasus" referred to something that was lowered in value, quality, or dignity. Over time, it evolved into "debase" in the English language with the same basic meaning of lowering the value or quality of something, particularly in the moral or intellectual sense.
