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debase
This term carries a strong negative connotation of corruption and loss of purity. It describes a process where something once high-quality or noble is intentionally or accidentally degraded. In a financial context, it specifically refers to the historical practice of mixing precious metals with cheaper alloys to increase the money supply, which triggers a loss of trust in the currency. When applied to human character or art, the word suggests a descent into vulgarity or a betrayal of higher standards. It implies not just a decrease in value, but a shameful or unethical reduction in dignity, often resulting from greed, compromise, or moral failure.
Meanings
To lower the quality, value, or character of something by adding inferior materials or reducing its purity.
"The government decided to debase the currency by reducing the amount of gold in the coins."
To reduce the moral character, dignity, or prestige of a person or an institution through corrupt or low behavior.
"He felt that the constant lying served only to debase his own integrity."
To lower the status or quality of a piece of art, music, or literature by making it overly simplistic or commercial.
"Critics argued that the movie's happy ending served to debase the original tragedy of the novel."