1. reduced in quality, value, or character; corrupted or degraded
2. reduced in value by having the proportion of precious metal lowered
Usage: economics; historical

Examples

• The debased currency lost much of its purchasing power.
• Critics argued that reality TV had debased popular culture.
• The debased coins contained less silver than their predecessors.
• His debased behavior shocked his former colleagues.
• The debased language in the film made it unsuitable for children.
• Ancient rulers often issued debased coins during financial crises.