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to debase
01
to reduce the intrinsic value or quality of something, especially currency, by decreasing the amount of valuable material it contains
02
corrupt, debase, or make impure by adding a foreign or inferior substance; often by replacing valuable ingredients with inferior ones
03
to tarnish someone's character or morals
debase
v
base
v
debaser
n
debaser
n
debasing
adj
debasing
adj
Example
During times of economic crisis, governments might debase their currency by reducing the precious metal content to generate more money.
In ancient times, rulers would debase coins by diluting the precious metal content to finance their expenditures.
Economic mismanagement has sometimes led governments to debase their currency, resulting in a loss of trust in the monetary system.
Historical records indicate instances where rulers chose to debase coins, compromising the integrity of the monetary system for short-term financial gains.
In an attempt to cover budget shortfalls, certain civilizations historically resorted to debasing their coinage, diminishing the value of the currency in circulation.