Definition of decadencenext
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Synonym Chooser

How does the noun decadence differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of decadence are decline, degeneration, and deterioration. While all these words mean "the falling from a higher to a lower level in quality, character, or vitality," decadence presupposes a reaching and passing the peak of development and implies a turn downward with a consequent loss in vitality or energy.

cited love of luxury as a sign of cultural decadence

How are the words decline and decadence related?

Decline differs from decadence in suggesting a more markedly downward direction and greater momentum as well as more obvious evidence of deterioration.

the meteoric decline of his career after the scandal

When could degeneration be used to replace decadence?

The words degeneration and decadence can be used in similar contexts, but degeneration stresses physical, intellectual, or especially moral retrogression.

the degeneration of their youthful idealism into cynicism

When might deterioration be a better fit than decadence?

The words deterioration and decadence are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, deterioration implies generally the impairment of value or usefulness.

the deterioration of the house through neglect

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of decadence Yet, the show fails to nail the decadence of true Old Hollywood film noir. Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 22 May 2026 Chronicles of far-right obedience and moral decadence don’t get much more scathing than this. David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 22 May 2026 In contrast to contemporaries like Mette Ingvartsen, Anne Imhof, or Miet Warlop, Holzinger consistently references artistic subjects and themes connected to fin de siècle decadence. Caroline Lillian Schopp, Artforum, 13 May 2026 Enjoy them as is or dip them in chocolate for a touch of decadence. Hannah Agran, Midwest Living, 29 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for decadence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for decadence
Noun
  • The National Institute of Standards and Technology said long-term corrosion and the failure of multiple slab-to-column connections likely contributed to a progressive collapse after weeks of structural deterioration.
    Sergio Candido, CBS News, 24 June 2026
  • Heston is at his most gleefully cynical as Robert Thorn, a police detective who lives and works in a New York City decimated by environmental deterioration and dwindling resources.
    Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 23 June 2026
Noun
  • The building had long-term degradation from corrosion, too.
    Aaron Leibowitz, Miami Herald, 23 June 2026
  • Researchers worldwide continue to struggle with issues such as low ionic conductivity, interface degradation, manufacturing complexity, and cost.
    Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 22 June 2026
Noun
  • That window is shorter than most executives assume, as mental and physical declines often begin earlier than midlife, while the leader still feels fully capable and engaged.
    Julian Hayes II, Forbes.com, 24 June 2026
  • The decline in energy prices is easing inflation concerns, which has helped push the 10-year Treasury yield down roughly 9 basis points.
    Jeff Marks, CNBC, 24 June 2026
Noun
  • The council made similar appointments when Patrick Cannon stepped down in 2014 after he was indicted on public corruption charges and in 2013 when Anthony Foxx left the city to become the federal secretary of transportation.
    Mary Ramsey Updated June 22, Charlotte Observer, 23 June 2026
  • When self-interest matures into corruption, the machine begins to strain.
    Ann Manov, Harpers Magazine, 23 June 2026
Noun
  • The Phillies, off to an even worse start at 9-19, relieved Rob Thomson of his managerial duties Tuesday, and with Cora’s declination, named bench coach Don Mattingly interim skipper.
    Gabrielle Starr, Boston Herald, 28 Apr. 2026
  • The declinations came as the DOJ reassigned and cut prosecutors working on environmental cases.
    Ken B. Morales, ProPublica, 31 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • SpaceX continued its sharp descent back to Earth.
    Gail Krishnan, CNBC, 23 June 2026
  • Look no further than the ninth inning of Sunday’s latest descent to the bottom.
    Dieter Kurtenbach, Mercury News, 21 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Decadence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/decadence. Accessed 27 Jun. 2026.

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