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Degenerative - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Degenerative describes a condition or disease that progressively worsens over time, often causing deterioration of function or structure in affected tissues, organs, or systems. Examples include Alzheimer's or arthritis.

degenerative

/dɪˈdʒɛnərətɪv/ /dɪˈdʒɛnərətɪv/

Definition:

Relating to progressive deterioration, especially of bodily tissues or functions.

Synonyms:

deteriorating, declining, worsening, regressive

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

improving, regenerative

Common Collocations:

degenerative disease, degenerative condition, degenerative process, degenerative changes

Derivatives:

degeneratively, degeneration

Usage Tips:

Use "degenerative" to describe conditions that worsen over time, especially in medical contexts.

Common Phrases:

degenerative disorder, degenerative arthritis, degenerative myopia

Etymology:

From Latin "degeneratus," meaning "to decline from a former state."

Examples:

  • 1. The doctor diagnosed him with a degenerative eye disease.
  • 2. Her grandmother suffers from a degenerative neurological condition.
  • 3. Exercise can slow down some degenerative processes in the body.
  • 4. The research focuses on treatments for degenerative joint diseases.

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