Entry Word: debase

Function: verb

Meaning: 1 to lower in character or dignity <we debased ourselves when we cheated on the test>

Synonyms abase, corrupt, debauch, degrade, demean, deprave, pervert, poison, profane, prostitute, subvert, warp

Related Words contaminate, pollute, taint; descend; disgrace, humble, humiliate; blemish, damage, deface, destroy, flaw, harm, hurt, impair, mar, ruin, spoil, stain, tarnish, vitiate, wreck; depreciate, downgrade

Near Antonyms dignify, exalt, honor; amend, improve; cleanse, purify, restore; respect

Antonyms elevate, ennoble, uplift

2 to reduce to a lower standing in oneʼs own eyes or in othersʼ eyes <our failure to win a single game completely debased us> — see humble