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
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
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more degenerative
- Superlative
- most degenerative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Arthritis is a common _____ joint condition.
Etymology
From "degenerate" + the adjective suffix "-ive."
Rhymes for degenerative
See all rhymes for degenerative →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.
