Synonyms of decadence

decadence

noun

ˈde-kə-dən(t)s 

1

as in deterioration

a change to a lower state or level

a symbol of the decadence of their once-mighty civilization

Synonyms & Similar Words

• deterioration
• degradation
• decline
• declination
• descent
• degeneracy
• downfall
• degeneration
• ebb
• fall
• destruction
• devolution
• eclipse
• decay
• decrease
• reduction
• declension
• downgrade
• dissolution
• dégringolade
• disintegration
• drop
• decomposition
• sunset
• loss
• crumbling
• debasement
• nadir
• dark age
• breakup
• abasement
• dip
• spoiling
• rotting
• slump
• depreciation
• diminution
• ruination
• havoc
• demolition
• downturn
• deflation
• shrinkage
• desolation
• decimation
• ruin
• lessening
• diminishment
• lowering
• sag
• falloff
• abatement
• decrement
• downtrend
• demolishment
• slip
• downslide
• drop-off
• de-escalation

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• rise
• growth
• development
• evolution
• ascent
• advancement
• flowering
• upswing
• restoration
• renewal
• revitalization
• increase
• addition
• enhancement
• flourishing
• blossoming
• gain
• increment
• augmentation
• accrual
• accretion
• boost
• supplement
• raise
• heightening
• addendum

2

as in degradation

a sinking to a state of low moral standards and behavior

clergymen striving to combat decadence and sin in their communities

Synonyms & Similar Words

• degradation
• corruption
• corruptness
• dissoluteness
• turpitude
• decadency
• debasement
• degeneracy
• perversion
• abjection
• dissipation
• sinfulness
• libertinism
• demoralization
• debauchery
• depravity
• libertinage
• degeneration
• rakishness
• evil
• immorality
• villainy
• degenerateness
• pervertedness
• dissipatedness
• wickedness
• squalor
• filth
• gangrene
• rot

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• virtue
• morality
• goodness
• righteousness

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

Recent Examples of decadence

Arguably the defining crime film of a decade brimming with decadence, Scarface is excessive in every way, which only enhances its appeal. — Eric Farwell, Entertainment Weekly, 12 June 2026

Here are details on the sweet, tiny bites of unctuous decadence, and the fluffy, bogus cones best left in the freezer. — Jolene Thym, Mercury News, 3 June 2026

This time, any remaining impulses of late 1990s and 2000s decadence have been erased with features like a social lobby and a sprawling rooftop park with verdant landscaping with Adirondack chairs and a campfire. — Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 27 May 2026

Yet, the show fails to nail the decadence of true Old Hollywood film noir. — Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 22 May 2026