decadence
DEK-uh-dunss
/ˈdɛkədəns/
Moral or cultural decline as characterized by excessive indulgence in pleasure or luxury.
Often used to describe the final stages of an empire or a very rich dessert. It implies that too much 'good living' has led to a loss of strength or purpose.
The story behind the word. From the Medieval Latin 'decadentia,' meaning 'a falling away.' It shares a root with 'decay.' It became popular in the 19th century to describe a group of French writers (The Decadents) who embraced artifice and luxury over nature.
Word relationships
- dissipation: 'Dissipation' focuses more on the wasting of resources or health through over-indulgence.
- self-indulgence: A more common, less historically weighted term.
- asceticism: Severe self-discipline and avoidance of all forms of indulgence.
- morality: Principles concerning the distinction between right and wrong.
Commonly confused with
- decay: 'Decay' is natural and physical; 'decadence' is social and often self-inflicted.
Word family
- decadent (adjective): Characterized by decadence.
Collocations
- moral decadence
- western decadence
- pure decadence
Example sentences
- "Historians often point to the decadence of the upper classes as a reason for the empire's fall." Historical analysis of Rome.
- "The chocolate cake was the height of decadence, topped with gold leaf and rich cream." Describing a rich food.
Memory hook
Decadence is like a 'Decade' of 'Dance' and parties that leaves you exhausted and broke. Decadence = Falling down through luxury.
When not to use
Don't use it for simple physical decay like rot; it must involve a sense of luxury or moral choice.
Fun facts
- In the 1920s, the term was frequently used to describe the 'Jazz Age' lifestyle.
Related words
Explore more words
degradation, epicurean, indulgent, opulent, delectable, delicacy
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