1. the action of reducing the quality or value of something
2. the lowering of someone in rank, character, or quality
3. the reduction of the content of precious metal in coins
Usage: economics; historical

Examples

• The debasement of educational standards has become a major concern.
• Currency debasement was common in ancient Rome when silver content was reduced.
• He felt the debasement of his character was unfair and undeserved.
• The debasement of the language through constant slang usage worried teachers.
• Political corruption led to the debasement of public trust in government.
• The debasement of artistic values in commercial media sparked debate.
• Historical records show the gradual debasement of coins over centuries.