DECADENCE Synonyms: 115 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

decadence

noun

ˈde-kə-dən(t)s

Definition of decadence next

as in deterioration

a change to a lower state or level a symbol of the decadence of their once-mighty civilization

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in degradation

a sinking to a state of low moral standards and behavior clergymen striving to combat decadence and sin in their communities

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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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 Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of decadence The decadence is liberating, the lack of inhibitions is liberating. —

James Factora, Them, 5 Sep. 2024 Yet the overall decadence of the drink remains the same. —

Elise Taylor, Vogue, 24 Dec. 2024 The ’80s, the decade of decadence and extremes, is a major influence of the jewelry collections from the spring runway. —

Thomas Waller, WWD, 5 Dec. 2024 Designed by Garrett Singer Architecture + Design this nightclub is maximalist and fun, celebrating the decadence of the ‘70s with custom disco chandeliers. —

Rana Good, Forbes, 1 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for decadence

Recent Examples of Synonyms for decadence

Noun

Based on the deterioration of the relationship, a trade — as soon as possible — would appear the preferred alternative, particularly with this latest two-game suspension to otherwise put Butler back in play for the Heat as soon as Monday night’s game against the Orlando Magic at Kaseya Center.

— Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 23 Jan. 2025
For women, especially, working could, therefore, be dangerous for them physically and could lead to the deterioration of their health: a result that could adversely affect their roles as mothers and their subsequent responsibility to raise future generations, especially boys.

— Eva Epker, Forbes, 21 Jan. 2025