Debuff vs. Nerf — What's the Difference?

An effect that makes a game character weaker; a negative status effect.

Nerf is a toy brand formed by Parker Brothers and currently owned by Hasbro. Most of the toys are a variety of foam-based weaponry, with other Nerf products including balls for sports such as American football, basketball, and baseball.

To make a character or unit weaker.

To bump lightly, whether accidentally or purposefully.

To change a mechanic, an ability or a character in a video game in order to make a previously dominant strategy less viable or less effective.

To arbitrarily limit or reduce the capability of.

The deterioration, weakening or worsening of a character, a weapon, a spell, etc.