degenerate (B2)

verb

Pronunciation: /dɪˈdʒenəreɪt/

Definition

To decline or worsen in physical, moral, or intellectual quality.

Examples

• His health began to degenerate after the accident.

• The political situation degenerated into chaos.

• Some argue that popular music has degenerated over the decades.

How to Use degenerate

degenerate into (prepositional phrase)

To gradually become something worse or less desirable. — "The peaceful protest unfortunately degenerated into a riot."

Synonyms of degenerate

Words with a similar meaning to degenerate:

• worsen
• deteriorate
• decay
• decline

Antonyms of degenerate

Words with the opposite meaning to degenerate:

• improve
• progress
• evolve

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