decadence DEK-uh-duhns noun WS #12

moral or cultural decline as characterized by excessive indulgence in pleasure or luxury; a state of deterioration

1. Critics argued that the lavish parties were a sign of society's growing decadence.
2. The novel depicted the decadence of aristocratic life in the 18th century.
3. The decadence of the once-great city was evident in its crumbling infrastructure and corrupt officials.
4. Many historians point to economic inequality and moral decadence as causes of revolution.
5. The fall of the Roman Empire was attributed to widespread decadence among the ruling class.