deterioration

[dih-teer-ee-uh-rey-shuhn]

noun

1. the act or process of deteriorating.

2. the state or condition of having deteriorated.

3. a gradual decline, as in quality, serviceability, or vigor.

Other Word Forms

• nondeterioration noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of deterioration¹

1650–60; < Late Latin dēteriōrātiōn- (stem of dēteriōrātiō ), equivalent to dēteriōrāt ( us ) ( deteriorate ) + -iōn- -ion

Example Sentences

Bolsonaro has been charged with leading an armed criminal organisation, attempting the violent abolition of the democratic state of law, an attempted coup, damage to federal property, and the deterioration of listed heritage.

From BBC

The following morning, however, they were told of a "marked deterioration" in her condition.

From BBC

There have been suggestions that Nuno has not been fully involved in the club's recruitment this summer, which could be a factor in the deterioration of his relationship with Marinakis.

From BBC

Delaney would become a lifelong friend, even after he began suffering from mental deterioration, dying after years of hospitalization in 1979.

From Los Angeles Times

For example, diversions of water to supply farms and cities have contributed to the ecological deterioration of the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta, where native fish species have suffered major declines.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• decline 
• degradation 
• depreciation 
• devaluation 
• disintegration 
• dislocation 
• downturn 
• slump 
• worsening www.thesaurus.com