decadence

[dek-uh-duhns, dih-keyd-ns] / ˈdɛk ə dəns, dɪˈkeɪd ns /

NOUN

perversion; deterioration of morality

Synonyms

STRONG

corruption debasement decay declension decline degeneracy degeneration degradation devolution dissipation dissolution downfall downgrade evil excess fall gluttony incontinence intemperance lasciviousness lechery lewdness licentiousness regression sensuality

WEAK

sybaritism

Antonyms

STRONG

ascent decency development goodness honor improvement morality rise upgrade virtue

WEAK

humility

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He’s likely to end up celebrating only his own decadence, poverty of spirit and enormous hubris.

From Salon • May 3, 2026

As China liberalizes, some 5,000 miles away, the constraints relax and Ms. Chang sneaks off to enjoy a little Western decadence.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 14, 2026

Critics praised the record's "sky-high ambition" and ""decadence and theatricality"", calling it "one of the strongest debuts in recent memory".

From BBC • Feb. 9, 2024

For the evening, soft suits and overcoats with shimmery surfaces and nearly sheer long knitwear over trousers gave a touch of decadence.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 13, 2024

Or again, had he seen me and been silent out of sophistication, decadence, over-civilization?

From "Invisible Man" by Ralph Ellison

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