verb

reduce (something) in quality or value; degrade.

the love episodes debase the dignity of the drama

degrade,devalue,demean,lower the status of,reduce the status of,cheapen,prostitute,discredit,drag down,drag through the mud,tarnish,blacken,blemish,disgrace,dishonour,shame,bring shame to,humble,humiliate,damage,harm,undermine