noun
Uncommon
deterioration
dih-teer-reer-RAY-shuhn
Deterioration (noun) means the process of becoming worse, or the resulting worse state. Example: “The report noted a steady deterioration in air quality.”
noun
1
The process of becoming worse, or the resulting worse state.
""The quantum sensors will provide highly accurate measurements that will help to detect the rate of change of the track and subsequently, any deteriorations which might lead to faults.""
— , Network News: Researchers team up on navigation data system (2020)
"The Queen may be celebrating her jubilee but the Queen's English Society, which has railed against the misuse and deterioration of the English language, is to fold."
— Lewis Smith (2012)
"V-Dem lists the characteristics of autocratization as deteriorations in freedom of expression, the decline of free and fair elections, and the centralization of authority."
— , Can democracy survive without America? (2025)
"The report noted a steady deterioration in air quality."
"Years of damp caused serious deterioration of the walls."
"Doctors were worried about the rapid deterioration in the patient's condition overnight."
How to use deterioration
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe gradual worsening of something.
Common pairings
rapid deterioration
deterioration in health
signs of deterioration
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Word forms
- Plural
- deteriorations
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The report noted a steady _____ in air quality.
Etymology
From French détérioration, built from deteriorate + -ion.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for deterioration
region
ablation
allusion
emulsion
ideation
novation
diffusion
elocution
extension
oxidation
perfusion
selection
See all rhymes for deterioration →
Frequently asked questions
What does “deterioration” mean?
The word “deterioration” means the process of becoming worse, or the resulting worse state. In plain terms, the gradual worsening of something.
How do you pronounce “deterioration”?
“Deterioration” is pronounced dih-teer-reer-RAY-shuhn (/dəˌti.ɹi.əˈɹeɪ.ʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “deterioration” in a sentence?
Here is “deterioration” used in a sentence: “The report noted a steady deterioration in air quality.”
What is the opposite of “deterioration”?
The opposite of “deterioration” — its antonyms — are amelioration, betterment, improval and improvement.
What part of speech is “deterioration”?
“Deterioration” is a noun.
Where does the word “deterioration” come from?
The word “deterioration” comes from French. From French détérioration, built from deteriorate + -ion.
Is “deterioration” a common word?
“Deterioration” is an uncommon word in modern English.
