decadence

noun

dec·a·dence ˈde-kə-dən(t)s

also di-ˈkā-

Synonyms of decadence next

: 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

: a period of decline

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

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“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

also di-ˈkād-ᵊn(t)s

: a falling off in quality or strength : a sinking to a lower state or level

: 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

Last Updated: 25 Nov 2024 - Updated example sentences

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decadence

noun

Synonyms

Examples of decadence in a Sentence

Word History

Dictionary Entries Near decadence

Cite this Entry

Kids Definition