degradation
Degradation (noun) means a lowering in rank, dignity, or reputation. Example: “He described the humiliating job as a degradation of his skills.”
How to use degradation
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe process of something (or someone's standing) getting worse or being reduced.
Word forms
degradations plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He described the humiliating job as a _____ of his skills.
Etymology
From French dégradation, built from "degrade" + "-ation."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for degradation
Frequently asked questions
What does “degradation” mean?
The word “degradation” means a lowering in rank, dignity, or reputation. In plain terms, the process of something (or someone's standing) getting worse or being reduced.
How do you pronounce “degradation”?
“Degradation” is pronounced dehg-ruh-DAY-shuhn (/ˌdɛɡɹəˈdeɪʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “degradation” in a sentence?
Here is “degradation” used in a sentence: “He described the humiliating job as a degradation of his skills.”
What part of speech is “degradation”?
“Degradation” is a noun.
Where does the word “degradation” come from?
The word “degradation” comes from French. From French dégradation, built from "degrade" + "-ation.".
Is “degradation” a common word?
“Degradation” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.
How many meanings does “degradation” have?
“Degradation” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a lowering in rank, dignity, or reputation.
What is the difference between degradation and deterioration?
Degradation often implies a lowering in rank, dignity, or reputation, or a decline caused by an external process acting on something, while deterioration usually just describes a general worsening of condition over time. Degradation can carry a stronger sense of humiliation or being reduced in status, which deterioration lacks.
Can degradation refer to the environment or materials?
Yes, degradation is widely used to describe a gradual decline in quality, strength, or condition, which is why it appears in phrases like "soil degradation" or "environmental degradation." In these uses it refers to physical or chemical decline rather than personal humiliation.
Is degradation always a negative word?
Yes, degradation consistently carries a negative meaning, whether it refers to a lowering in rank or reputation, or a decline in quality or condition. There is no neutral or positive sense of the word.
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Vocabulary lists that include degradation: