IPA

Dictionary definition of degenerate

Declining or deteriorating in quality, character, or value.
"His degenerate lifestyle of drugs and alcohol was taking a toll on his health."

Detailed meaning of degenerate

It can also describe a person who has become morally or intellectually corrupt or depraved. For example, a society that has declined in moral or cultural values might be described as being degenerate. A person who has become morally or intellectually corrupt or depraved might also be seen as being degenerate. The term is often used to describe something or someone that is seen as being in a state of decline or deterioration, and that is therefore considered to be corrupt or depraved.

Example sentences of degenerate

1. The once-grand mansion had become a degenerate and dilapidated building.
2. He was a degenerate gambler who couldn't resist the urge to bet on anything and everything.
3. The music industry is being criticized for promoting degenerate and vulgar lyrics.
4. The scientist discovered a degenerate gene that was no longer serving any useful purpose.
5. The politician's degenerate behavior was exposed in the media, leading to his downfall.
6. The old machine was so degenerate that it could barely perform its intended function.

History and etymology of degenerate

The adjective 'degenerate' has an etymology that can be traced back to Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'degeneratus,' which combines 'de,' meaning 'down from' or 'away from,' and 'generare,' meaning 'to beget' or 'to generate.' In its original sense, 'degenerate' was used to describe something or someone that had fallen away from its original or inherited quality, character, or value. It signified a decline or deterioration from a previous state of goodness or excellence. Over time, the term took on a broader meaning in English and came to describe anything that has declined or deteriorated in quality, character, or value. 'Degenerate' emphasizes the notion of descending from a higher or more virtuous state, underscoring the idea of decline or degradation.

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Further usage examples of degenerate

1. The degenerate art movement challenged traditional notions of beauty in the art world.
2. The once-pristine beach had become a degenerate wasteland of litter and pollution.
3. The novel's protagonist was a degenerate criminal who had no remorse for his actions.
4. The degenerate language used by the children shocked their teachers and parents.
5. The degenerate culture of violence and crime in the city was a major concern for law enforcement.
6. The once-thriving neighborhood has become a degenerate area plagued by crime.
7. Her degenerate behavior shocked her friends, as she had always been responsible.
8. The company's degenerate ethics led to its downfall and loss of reputation.
9. The degenerate state of the old building made it unsafe for occupancy.
10. The degenerate quality of the product disappointed customers and led to refunds.
11. His degenerate attitude towards his responsibilities caused problems at work.
12. The degenerate art collection was no longer considered valuable.
13. The city's degenerate infrastructure desperately needed repair.
14. The degenerate manuscript was barely legible due to its age.
15. Their degenerate habits strained their relationship to the breaking point.
16. The degenerate state of the environment called for urgent conservation efforts.
17. The degenerate state of public education concerned parents and educators.
18. The degenerate language used in the film offended many viewers.
19. His degenerate sense of style made him stand out in the conservative town.
20. The degenerate state of the economy led to high unemployment rates.
21. The degenerate condition of the antique car decreased its value significantly.
22. The degenerate performance of the team disappointed their loyal fans.
23. Her degenerate health prevented her from enjoying life to the fullest.
24. The degenerate state of the forest was a result of illegal logging.
25. The degenerate taste of the food left a bad impression on the diners.
26. The degenerate morals of the society were a cause for concern.
27. The degenerate condition of the historic building saddened preservationists.
28. His degenerate sense of humor offended some, while others found it hilarious.
29. The degenerate state of the river was evident in its polluted waters.
30. The degenerate behavior of the politician tarnished his career and reputation.