Cheapened

Reduced in value, quality, or esteem. 'Cheapened' implies a degradation or debasement, often through overuse, poor quality imitations, or association with something undesirable. It suggests a loss of worth, either tangible or intangible. The process can occur gradually or suddenly, but the result is a diminished perception or reality of the original value. The term carries a negative connotation, indicating something has been made less desirable or respectable.

Cheapened meaning with examples

• The constant stream of advertisements featuring celebrities completely cheapened the brand's image, turning it into just another mass-market product rather than a symbol of luxury.
• By repeatedly using the word 'awesome' for every minor event, they have cheapened its true meaning, so now it carries little weight when something genuinely amazing happens.
• The politician's acceptance of illicit donations significantly cheapened his reputation and eroded public trust, leading to his eventual resignation from the government.
• Flooding the market with poorly made imitations of the original artwork cheapened the artist's creative achievement, lowering its financial worth, and insulting the artist.