# decadence

/ˈdɛkədəns/ (US) · /dˈɛkədəns/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/decadence
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

a state of extreme luxury and pleasure, often seen as a sign that a society or person is becoming weak or corrupt.

For teachers: a state of extreme indulgence in luxury and pleasure, typically viewed as a sign of moral or social decay.

## Examples

- The hotel was famous for its decadence and high prices.
- The city's history is marked by a period of decadence where the elite spent vast sums on art and entertainment.
- Critics argued that the film's visual decadence masked a deeper narrative of systemic failure, suggesting that the characters' excesses were a symptom of a collapsing social order.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.