Deteriorate

/dɪˈtɪə.ɹɪə.ɹeɪt/ · verb

Meaning

(transitive) To make worse; to make inferior in quality or value; to impair..

Definitions by Sense

1. (transitive) To make worse; to make inferior in quality or value; to impair.
2. (intransitive) To grow worse; to be impaired in quality; to degenerate.

Example Sentences

to deteriorate the mind

The art of war, like every other art, ecclesiastical architecture alone excepted, was greatly deteriorated during those years of general degradation[…]

During this fine run through Fife the weather had deteriorated rapidly, and as we passed Wormit and came onto the Tay Bridge heavy rain clouds were piled over the sea.

The condition of the tunnel continued to deteriorate, aggravated by the vibration from the heavy traffic, and stories of trains emerging with dislodged bricks on their roofs are probably not exaggerated.

It was turning into an abysmal afternoon for Newcastle and it deteriorated further when Tiote saw red for his challenge on Jon Ashton.

Synonyms for deteriorate

Antonyms for deteriorate

Related Words

Word Forms

• deteriorates
• deteriorating
• deteriorated

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

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