degeneration

[ dih-jen-uh-rey-shuhn ]

noun

1. the process of degenerating.
2. the condition or state of being degenerate.
3. Pathology.
   1. a process by which a tissue deteriorates, loses functional activity, and may become converted into or replaced by other kinds of tissue.
   2. the condition produced by such a process.

degeneration

/ dɪˌdʒɛnəˈreɪʃən /

noun

1. the process of degenerating
2. the state of being degenerate
3. biology the loss of specialization, function, or structure by organisms and their parts, as in the development of vestigial organs
4. 1. impairment or loss of the function and structure of cells or tissues, as by disease or injury, often leading to death (necrosis) of the involved part
   2. the resulting condition
5. electronics negative feedback of a signal

Other Words From

• nonde·gener·ation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of degeneration¹

First recorded in 1475–85, degeneration is from the Late Latin word dēgenerātiōn- (stem of dēgenerātiō ). See de-, generation

Example Sentences

Gingrich, who cheated on his second wife, then held Democrats responsible for America's moral degeneration.

From Salon

Nicks also revealed she has been dealing with a health condition called wet macular degeneration that colors her vision.

From Salon

Muscular dystrophy is a genetic disorder which usually affects young males, resulting in progressive muscle degeneration.

From BBC

Hundreds of such clinics have sprung up around the country, luring customers with claims that their treatments can address conditions including Alzheimer’s, arthritis, cancer, macular degeneration, Crohn’s disease, Parkinson’s and even erectile dysfunction.

From Los Angeles Times

She had already lost central vision in her right eye when, three years ago, the sight in her left eye suddenly deteriorated aggressively, caused by a condition called wet macula degeneration.

From BBC

Related Words

• decay
• worsening