debasing
|de/bas/ing|
/dɪˈbeɪsɪŋ/
(debase)
lower in value
Etymology
'debase' originates from French, specifically the word 'débaser', where 'de-' meant 'remove' or 'down' and 'bas' meant 'low' (from Old French 'bas' and Vulgar Latin 'bassus').
'debase' changed from the French word 'débaser' and was adopted into English in the 16th century, eventually becoming the modern English word 'debase'.
Initially, it meant 'to lower in rank, status, or quality', and over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to reduce the value, quality, or dignity of something'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
gerund noun: the act or process of debasing.
Debasing of language can happen through overuse of buzzwords.
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Verb 1
present participle or gerund of 'debase': to make something lower in value, quality, or dignity.
The manager's constant criticism was debasing the team's morale.
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Verb 2
present participle or gerund of 'debase' in a specialized sense: to reduce the purity or metallic content (especially of coinage).
Historically, rulers were accused of debasing the currency by reducing the silver content.
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Adjective 1
causing a loss of respect, dignity, or moral standing; humiliating or degrading.
She found the job's requirements humiliating and debasing.
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Last updated: 2025/11/29 18:35