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Degeneration - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Degeneration refers to the process of declining or deteriorating in quality, function, or condition over time. It is often used in biology, medicine, or social contexts to describe worsening states.

degeneration

/dɪˌdʒɛnəˈreɪʃən/ /dɪˌdʒɛnəˈreɪʃən/

Definition:

The process of declining or deteriorating in quality, function, or condition.

Synonyms:

decay, deterioration, decline, degradation

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

improvement, regeneration

Common Collocations:

moral degeneration, physical degeneration, mental degeneration

Derivatives:

degenerate (adj/v), degeneracy (n)

Usage Tips:

Use "degeneration" to describe a gradual decline in quality or health over time.

Common Phrases:

moral degeneration, degenerative disease, social degeneration

Etymology:

From Latin "degenerare," meaning "to depart from one's kind" or "decline."

Examples:

  • 1. The doctor explained the degeneration of his joints due to aging.
  • 2. Urban pollution can lead to the degeneration of natural habitats.
  • 3. Her research focuses on preventing neural degeneration in Alzheimer’s patients.
  • 4. The artist’s later works show a clear degeneration in skill.

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