Definition

To engage in excessive indulgence in pleasures, often leading to moral or physical decline.

Example

After a week of debauch, he realized he needed to change his lifestyle.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you noticed how some of our friends tend to debauch every weekend?

Yeah, it's like they don't care about anything else.

I guess they just want to have fun, but it can get out of hand.

True, it’s all about balance, right?

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A period of excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures, often involving drinking and partying.

Example

The weekend was filled with debauch, as they celebrated their friend's birthday with wild parties.

Conversation

Did you hear about the big party this weekend?

Yeah, I heard it's going to be a real debauch.

I wonder what kind of craziness they'll have planned.

Definition

To lead someone away from good behavior or morals, often by encouraging indulgence in pleasures or vices.

Example

The scandal debauched the politician's reputation, leading to his downfall.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you ever thought about how certain experiences can debauch our values?

Yeah, it's interesting how easily we can be led astray.

Exactly! Sometimes, just a single night out can completely change our perspective.

Root Explanation

Debauch comes from the Old French 'debaucher' (meaning to lead away or entice), which is formed from 'de-' (meaning down or away) and 'baucher' (meaning to lead or to entice). The word originally referred to leading someone away from virtue or moral restraint, particularly in the context of indulgence in sensual pleasures.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'led away' ('de-' means down or away, and 'baucher' means to lead') from moral restraint — that's why debauch means to indulge in excessive pleasures.

Visually Confused Words