adj

degenerative

dih-JEHN-ruh-tihv

Degenerative (adj) means causing or involving progressive deterioration, especially of the body. Example: “Arthritis is a common degenerative joint condition.”

adj

Causing or involving progressive deterioration, especially of the body.

"Arthritis is a common degenerative joint condition."

How to use degenerative

Learner’s notes

In 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

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Arthritis is a common _____ joint condition.

Etymology

From "degenerate" + the adjective suffix "-ive."

Rhymes for degenerative

five give dive live olive drive alive strive derive active arrive native

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Frequently asked questions

What does “degenerative” mean?

The word “degenerative” means causing or involving progressive deterioration, especially of the body. In plain terms, describes a condition that keeps getting worse over time.

How do you pronounce “degenerative”?

“Degenerative” is pronounced dih-JEHN-ruh-tihv (/dɪˈdʒɛn(ə)ɹətɪv/ in IPA).

How do you use “degenerative” in a sentence?

Here is “degenerative” used in a sentence: “Arthritis is a common degenerative joint condition.”

What part of speech is “degenerative”?

“Degenerative” is an adjective.