adj
degenerative
dih-JEHN-ruh-tihv
adj
1
Causing or involving progressive deterioration, especially of the body.
"Arthritis is a common degenerative joint condition."
How to Use Degenerative
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDescribes a condition that keeps getting worse over time.
When to use it
Almost always used in medical contexts, especially about diseases that progressively worsen.
Common pairings
degenerative disease
degenerative disorder
Word Forms
more degenerative comparative, most degenerative superlative
Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “degenerative”
A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage
→
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
Arthritis is a common _____ joint condition.
Etymology
From "degenerate" + the adjective suffix "-ive."