Degenerative

usgb/dɪˈdʒenərətɪv/
adjective

Gradually becoming worse or less, often because of a disease or old age.

She was diagnosed with a degenerative nerve disease.
Visual representation of "degenerative" - Gradually becoming worse or less, often because of a disease or old age.

Often appears as...

  • degenerative disorder
  • degenerative condition

Usage tips

Formal

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "degenerative"
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Medical Context

Used in healthcare topics to describe diseases that worsen over time.

Illustration for Medical Context
Her degenerative condition will require ongoing treatment.
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Irreversible Nature

Implies the condition cannot improve and will continue to degrade.

Illustration for Irreversible Nature
Degenerative diseases like Alzheimer's cannot be reversed.
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Aging Association

Often linked to aging, reflecting conditions that deteriorate naturally over time.

Illustration for Aging Association
Age-related vision loss is a common degenerative problem.
Visual representation of the word "Degenerative"

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