decadence

dec·a·dence

noun \ˈde-kə-dən(t)s also di-ˈkā-\

Definition of DECADENCE

1

: the process of becoming decadent : the quality or state of being decadent

2

: a period of decline

Examples of DECADENCE

1. The book condemns the decadence of modern society.
2. <a symbol of the decadence of their once-mighty civilization>

Origin of DECADENCE

Middle French, from Medieval Latin decadentia, from Late Latin decadent-, decadens, present participle of decadere to fall, sink — more at decay

First Known Use: 1530

Related to DECADENCE

Synonyms: decline, declension, declination, degeneracy, degeneration, degradation, dégringolade, descent, deterioration, devolution, downfall, downgrade, ebb, eclipse, fall

Antonyms: ascent, rise, upswing

Related Words: dark age, nadir, sunset; decay, rotting, spoiling; breakup, crumbling, decomposition, disintegration, dissolution; abasement, debasement; depreciation, lessening; decimation, demolishment, demolition, desolation, destruction, havoc, ruin, ruination; abatement, decrease, decrement, de-escalation, deflation, diminishment, diminution, dip, downslide, downtrend, downturn, drop, drop-off, falloff, loss, lowering, reduction, sag, shrinkage, slip, slump

Near Antonyms: advancement, development, evolution, growth; blossoming, flourishing, flowering; renewal, restoration, revitalization; heightening; accretion, accrual, addendum, addition, augmentation, boost, enhancement, gain, increase, increment, raise, supplement

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See Synonym Discussion at deterioration