DECADENCY Meaning and
Definition
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Decadency is a noun that refers to the state or quality of being decadent. It is derived from the word "decadent" and is often used to describe a period or society characterized by moral or cultural decline.
In a general sense, decadency describes a decline from a previous higher moral or cultural standard, often associated with indulgence in luxury, excess, or self-gratification. It implies the deterioration or corruption of values, principles, or traditions that were once upheld or esteemed. Decadency can manifest in various aspects of society, including art, literature, architecture, politics, or social customs.
In the realm of art and literature, decadency refers to a movement that emerged in the late 19th century, particularly in Europe. It sought to challenge and reject dominant cultural norms, replacing them with themes of self-indulgence, sensual pleasure, and aestheticism. The decadent artists and writers of this period often explored taboo subjects, focused on the morbid or erotic, and rejected traditional moral frameworks.
Decadency can also be used to describe an individual's behavior or lifestyle characterized by excessive self-gratification, overconsumption, or a lack of restraint. It implies a lack of self-discipline or a willingness to prioritize immediate pleasures over long-term values or goals.
Overall, decadency is a term that highlights a decline from a higher moral or cultural standard, often associated with indulgence, excess, or the rejection of traditional norms. It can pertain to various aspects of society or personal behavior, and its exact connotations depend on the particular context in which it is used.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for DECADENCY
Etymology of DECADENCY
The word decadency is derived from the noun decadence.
The etymology of decadence can be traced back to the Latin word decadentia, which means decaying or falling away. It is derived from the Latin verb decadere, which combines de (meaning down) and cadere (meaning to fall).
In English, decadence originally referred to the process of decay or decline, often used in a moral or cultural sense. Over time, it has also come to refer to a state of luxurious, self-indulgent, or excessive behavior. Decadency is a less common form of the word, often used as a variant or synonym of decadence.
Similar spelling words for DECADENCY
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