degenerate state

noun

1. Usually degenerate states. Physics. a quantum state of a system, having the same energy level as, but a different wave function from, another state of the system.

Word History and Origins

Origin of degenerate state¹

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

In Britain, pro-fascist writing by philosopher and social critic Anthony Ludovici in the 1920s had attributed the degenerate state of politics partly to female emancipation, and 1930s fascists continued to uphold such prejudices.

From Slate

Jerusalem in her degenerate state.

From Project Gutenberg

And because all men are by nature in this degenerate state, they are an abomination in the sight of God; since there is no faith in them, nor any filial reliance upon the paternal goodness of God.

From Project Gutenberg

There seems no reason, therefore, why the complaint should be propagated in future, in circumstances favourable to vegetation; and this opinion is the more likely to be true, that it is not inconsistent with the idea of the disease of former years having arisen from a degenerate state of the potato plant, since low temperature and excessive moisture were more likely to affect a plant in a state of degeneracy than when its vitality remains unimpaired.

From Project Gutenberg

Titus Advice as to the course to pursue in helping the church in Crete to overcome degenerate state; church organization, qualification of elders, suppression of false teachers; personal words to Titus; the importance of good works.

From Project Gutenberg