'debase' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'debasen,' where 'de-' meant 'down' and 'base' meant 'low.'

'debasen' transformed into the modern English word 'debase,' and 'debaser' was formed by adding the suffix '-er' to indicate a person or thing that performs the action.

Initially, it meant 'to lower in status or quality,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.