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Synonym Chooser

How does the noun decadence differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of decadence are decline, degeneration, and deterioration. While all these words mean "the falling from a higher to a lower level in quality, character, or vitality," 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

How are the words decline and decadence related?

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

When could degeneration be used to replace decadence?

The words degeneration and decadence can be used in similar contexts, but degeneration stresses physical, intellectual, or especially moral retrogression.

the degeneration of their youthful idealism into cynicism

When might deterioration be a better fit than decadence?

The words deterioration and decadence are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, deterioration implies generally the impairment of value or usefulness.

the deterioration of the house through neglect

Examples of decadence in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Roberto Minervini’s The Damned is titled after Luchino Visconti’s awesome, harrowing 1969 epic about Nazi decadence, The Damned. Armond White, National Review, 2 Oct. 2024 The hallway—and its black-and-white checkerboard marble flooring inspired by that at Claridge’s hotel—oozes Art Deco decadence, while the punchy colors of the bathroom create a visually distinct, whimsical world. Busola Evans, Architectural Digest, 10 Sep. 2024 It was recently acquired by Auberge Resorts Collection, which gave it an extensive makeover that has resulted in a stunning balance of moody decadence and clean, classic modernism, with many signature winks to the bygone era of clubby American splendor. Christopher Bollen, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Apr. 2023 The party represented a rarefied kind of decadence that many trans people don’t often get to experience, and every trans person got in for free. James Factora, Them, 5 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for decadence 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'decadence.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Thesaurus Entries Near decadence

Cite this Entry

“Decadence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/decadence. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on decadence

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