Webster's English Dictionary

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debase

Cross references:
  1. abase                 
 
de.base \di-'ba-s\ \-'ba--sm*nt\ \-'ba--s*r\ vt 1: to lower in status, 
   esteem, quality, or character  2: to reduce the intrinsic value of by 
   increasing the base-metal content  2b: to reduce the exchange value of RT: 
   DEBASE implies a loss of position, worth, value, or dignity; VITIATE 
   implies a destruction of purity, validity, or effectiveness by allowing 
   entrance of a fault or defect; DEPRAVE implies moral deterioration by evil 
   thoughts or influences; CORRUPT implies loss of soundness, purity, or 
   integrity; DEBAUCH implies a debasing through sensual indulgence; PERVERT 
   implies a twisting or distorting from what is natural or normal - 
   de.base.ment n SYN syn VITIATE, DEPRAVE, CORRUPT, DEBAUCH, PERVE