Deteriorate

Definition

Deteriorate refers to the process of becoming progressively worse in condition, quality, or function. It is commonly used to describe the decline of physical objects, health, relationships, or situations over time.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈtɪriəˌreɪt/
• Respelling: dih-TEER-ee-uh-rayt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈtɪərɪəˌreɪt/
• Respelling: dih-TEER-ee-uh-rayt

The pronunciation of "deteriorate" is almost identical in both American and British English, with slight differences in vowel sound emphasis.

Etymology

The word "deteriorate" comes from the Latin word "deteriorare," meaning "to make worse," derived from "deterior," meaning "worse." The term entered English in the late 16th century and has been used primarily to describe a decline in quality or condition.

Derivatives

• Deterioration (noun)
• Deteriorative (adjective)
• Deteriorated (adjective)
• Deteriorating (verb/adjective)
• Undeteriorated (adjective)

Synonyms

• Degenerate
• Decline
• Worsen

Antonyms

• Improve
• Enhance
• Strengthen

Usage

The term "deteriorate" is widely used in both formal and informal contexts. It is applied in situations where something is declining in quality, such as a structure deteriorating due to weather, a person’s health worsening over time, or the breakdown of a relationship. It is also used in more abstract contexts, such as the deterioration of moral values or economic conditions.

Related Terms

• Decay: The process of rotting or decomposing.
• Degrade: To reduce in quality or value.
• Corrode: To slowly destroy or weaken, especially by chemical action.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To become progressively worse: Refers to a gradual decline in quality, condition, or functioning.
  • Example: "The building began to deteriorate after years of neglect."
• To make something worse: Describes the act of causing something to decline in value, function, or condition.
  • Example: "His reckless actions deteriorated the situation even further."