decadence

noun

dec·​a·​dence ˈde-kə-dən(t)s How to pronounce decadence (audio)
 also  di-ˈkā-
Synonyms of decadencenext
1
: the process of becoming decadent : the quality or state of being decadent
the decadence of modern society
escape the decadence that attends upon old age—G. L. Dickinson
2
: a period of decline

Synonyms

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Choose the Right Synonym for decadence

deterioration, degeneration, decadence, decline mean the falling from a higher to a lower level in quality, character, or vitality.

deterioration implies generally the impairment of value or usefulness.

the deterioration of the house through neglect

degeneration stresses physical, intellectual, or especially moral retrogression.

the degeneration of their youthful idealism into cynicism

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

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

Examples of decadence in a Sentence

The book condemns the decadence of modern society. a symbol of the decadence of their once-mighty civilization
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Opened in 1889 as the first truly high-end hotel in Britain, The Savoy has been at the forefront of decadence ever since. —Forbes Travel Guide, Forbes, 25 Sep. 2024 Just like buttermilk in biscuits, cottage cheese can lend some extra tang and decadence to many comfort foods like lasagnas and casseroles. —Catherine Jessee, Southern Living, 8 Sep. 2024 But his breakaway is also a critique of the modern France where decadence is normalized. —Armond White, National Review, 1 Nov. 2024 Chicken stock adds meaty savoriness while a bit of cream offers just a touch of silky decadence, all of which comes steeped with herbaceous thyme and sage, as well as a good hit of garlic. —Tricia Manzanero Stuedeman, Southern Living, 26 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for decadence 

Word History

Etymology

Middle French, from Medieval Latin decadentia, from Late Latin decadent-, decadens, present participle of decadere to fall, sink — more at decay entry 1

First Known Use

1530, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of decadence was in 1530

Dictionary Entries Near decadence

decade-long

decadence

decadency

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Decadence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/decadence. Accessed 29 Nov. 2024.

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Kids Definition

decadence

noun
dec·​a·​dence ˈdek-əd-ən(t)s How to pronounce decadence (audio)
 also  di-ˈkād-ᵊn(t)s
1
: a falling off in quality or strength : a sinking to a lower state or level
2
: the tendency to give in to one's desires for comfort and pleasure
decadent
ˈdek-əd-ənt
 also  di-ˈkād-ᵊnt
adjective
decadent noun
decadently adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on decadence

Nglish: Translation of decadence for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of decadence for Arabic Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about decadence

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