debauched
UK[dɪˈbɔːtʃt]US[dɪˈbɔːtʃt]
adj
morally corrupted; characterized by excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures.
Morpheme Breakdown
de
bauch
ed
de
down, away, completely
bauch
ed
Etymology
the word 'debauched' originates from the old french verb 'desbauchier', which meant 'to lead astray' or 'to corrupt'. this, in turn, is believed to be derived from the old french 'bauch', meaning 'beam' or 'plank', metaphorically suggesting the idea of turning someone from the straight path (like a beam) onto a crooked one. the latin prefix 'de-', intensifying the sense of 'away from', was added to complete the meaning of leading someone away from proper conduct. the modern english adjective, formed with the past participle suffix '-ed', thus describes a state of having been led into excessive and immoral indulgence.
Analysis
Structure: de + bauch + ed
de- (latin origin, prefix meaning 'down, away, completely'); bauch (old french origin, from 'bauchier' meaning 'to corrupt', functional role: root); -ed (old english origin, suffix forming past participles and adjectives).
Examples
the novel depicts the debauched lifestyle of the decaying aristocracy.
after years of debauched living, he sought redemption and a simpler life.
the party was a debauched affair that lasted until dawn.