debase
UK[dɪˈbeɪs]US[dɪˈbeɪs]
v
to reduce the quality, value, or character of someone or something
v
to lower the value of coins by using less valuable metal
Morpheme Breakdown
de
base
de
down, away
base
low
Etymology
the word "debase" is a compound formed within english during the late 16th century. it combines the latin-derived prefix "de-," indicating a downward or reversing action, with the adjective "base," meaning low in quality or value. the term "base" itself has a complex history, descending from the latin "bassus" (low) and influenced by the old french "bas." the original, literal sense of "debase" was specifically monetary, referring to the act of lowering the intrinsic value of currency by alloying precious metals with baser ones. this concrete financial metaphor was then extended to the more abstract meaning of degrading anything in quality, status, or moral character, illustrating a clear semantic evolution from a physical reduction in value to a figurative lowering of standards.
Analysis
Structure: de (down, away) + base (low)
de: latin origin, a prefix meaning "down, away, off, completely," serving a reversing or degrading function.
base: latin origin via old french, from latin "basis" (foundation, pedestal) and late latin "bassus" (low, short). in this compound, it carries the sense of "low" or "of little value."
Examples
the celebrity scandal served to debase his public image.
a government should never debase its currency to pay off debts.
using cheap materials will only debase the overall craftsmanship of the product.