deteriorate
Deteriorate (verb) means to get worse in quality or condition. Example: “The old roof began to deteriorate after years of neglect.”
How to use deteriorate
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo go downhill — get worse over time.
Word forms
deteriorated past tense, deteriorates singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The old roof began to _____ after years of neglect.
Etymology
From Late Latin deteriorare, from deterior ("worse").
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for deteriorate
See all rhymes for deteriorate →Frequently asked questions
What does “deteriorate” mean?
The word “deteriorate” means to get worse in quality or condition. In plain terms, to go downhill — get worse over time.
How do you pronounce “deteriorate”?
“Deteriorate” is pronounced dih-TEER-reer-rayt (/dɪˈtɪɹ.iə.ɹeɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “deteriorate” in a sentence?
Here is “deteriorate” used in a sentence: “The old roof began to deteriorate after years of neglect.”
What is another word for “deteriorate”?
Words with a similar meaning to “deteriorate” include worsen, to go off, nerf, degenerate and weaken.
What is the opposite of “deteriorate”?
The opposite of “deteriorate” — its antonyms — are ameliorate, better, improve and revamp.
What part of speech is “deteriorate”?
“Deteriorate” is a verb.
Where does the word “deteriorate” come from?
The word “deteriorate” comes from Late Latin. From Late Latin deteriorare, from deterior ("worse").
Is “deteriorate” a common word?
“Deteriorate” is an uncommon word in modern English.