decadence
|dec-a-dence|
/ˈdɛkədəns/
falling into decline
Etymology
'decadence' originates from French, specifically the word 'décadence', where the Latin components 'de-' meant 'away' and 'cadere' meant 'to fall'.
'decadence' changed from French 'décadence' and Medieval Latin 'decadentia' and eventually became the modern English word 'decadence'.
Initially, it meant 'a falling away' or 'decline', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'moral or cultural decline often accompanied by self-indulgence'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
moral or cultural decline characterized by excessive indulgence in pleasure, luxury, or self-gratification.
Many commentators blamed the empire's fall on its decadence.
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Noun 2
a state or period of artistic or cultural decline marked by overelaboration, excess, or self-indulgent styles.
Some critics described late-century art as a period of decadence.
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Noun 3
excessive self-indulgence or luxurious living.
The novel reveals the decadence of the aristocracy through lavish banquets and idle days.
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Last updated: 2026/01/21 03:50