1. to reduce the quality, value, or dignity of something
2. to reduce the value of currency by lowering the content of precious metal
Usage: economics; historical

Examples

• The scandal debased his reputation in the community.
• Critics argued that reality TV debases popular culture.
• Ancient rulers often debased their coins during financial crises.
• She refused to debase herself by begging for forgiveness.
• The counterfeit products debase the brand’s image.
• Political mudslinging debases the entire electoral process.
• The king debased the currency to fund his wars.