Debase

Verb

Definition: Reduce (something) in quality or value; degrade.

Synonyms: Degrade, Demean, Cheapen

Antonyms: Elevate, Enhance, Promote

Examples:

The company's decision to use cheap materials debased the overall product quality.
The politician's lies and scandals debased his reputation amongst the voters.

Mnemonics:

Think of debase as "degrading the base" or lowering the foundation of something.

Etymology:

Origin:

Late Middle English (in the sense 'devalue metals by mixing them with inferior ones'): from Old French 'desbaser', from medieval Latin 'debasare', from Latin 'de' (down) + 'base' (low).

Historical Usage:

The term originated from the process of devaluing metals by mixing them with inferior ones, and later expanded to include the broader concept of reducing quality or value.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

None available for this specific word.

Explanation:

While both words involve negative actions, 'debase' refers to reducing quality or value, while 'deface' refers to damaging or disfiguring the appearance of something.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing 'debase' with 'deface'.

Explanation:

While both words involve negative actions, 'debase' refers to reducing quality or value, while 'deface' refers to damaging or disfiguring the appearance of something.