deteriorate

IPA

Dictionary definition of deteriorate

To decline or worsen, typically a condition, situation, or quality.
"The driving conditions began to deteriorate due to heavy traffic and harsh weather."

Detailed meaning of deteriorate

This can happen due to various factors such as neglect, damage, disease, or age. Deterioration can manifest in physical objects such as buildings, infrastructure, and machinery, as well as in abstract concepts such as relationships, mental health, and economic conditions. For example, a building's foundation may deteriorate due to exposure to the elements or a lack of maintenance, while a person's mental health may deteriorate due to chronic stress or trauma. Deterioration often implies a negative change or loss of value, and it can be difficult to reverse or repair once it has occurred.

Example sentences containing deteriorate

1. If you leave the bike outside, it will deteriorate quickly.
2. The harsh weather conditions caused the crops to deteriorate.
3. As the pollution levels rise, the air quality continues to deteriorate.
4. Her health began to deteriorate after she stopped exercising.
5. If you don't water this plant regularly, it will deteriorate.
6. The building will deteriorate if the maintenance is neglected.

History and etymology of deteriorate

The verb 'deteriorate' has its origins in Latin, coming from the word 'deteriorare,' which means 'to make worse' or 'to worsen.' It is derived from 'deterior,' meaning 'worse' or 'inferior.' In Latin, 'deteriorare' was used to describe the process of making something of lesser quality or causing it to decline. As the term evolved and was adopted into English, it retained its essential meaning of describing the decline or worsening of a condition, situation, or quality. The etymology of 'deteriorate' underscores the concept of making something worse or inferior, emphasizing the idea of deterioration as a negative transformation or decline from a previous state.

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Further usage examples of deteriorate

1. The patient's condition began to deteriorate rapidly.
2. The book will deteriorate if left in a damp environment.
3. The painting started to deteriorate when it was exposed to direct sunlight.
4. If the engine is not serviced regularly, its performance will deteriorate.
5. His handwriting began to deteriorate as he grew tired.
6. The roads tend to deteriorate due to heavy traffic and weather conditions.
7. When acid rain falls on statues, they will deteriorate over time.
8. As the discussion became heated, their relationship began to deteriorate.
9. If you use harsh chemicals, the fabric will deteriorate quickly.
10. The quality of education can deteriorate if schools are underfunded.
11. The river's water quality will deteriorate if pollution is not controlled.
12. The food will deteriorate if not stored properly in a cool place.
13. If you don't manage your time well, your work-life balance can deteriorate.
14. The morale of the team will deteriorate if the coach is not supportive.