Definition

The process or state of losing function, quality, or structure in an organism, tissue, or system, often due to disease, aging, or injury.

Example

The degeneration of the muscle tissue was evident in the patient's condition.

Conversation

Have you heard about the degeneration of coral reefs lately?

Yeah, it’s really concerning how fast they’re declining.

I read that pollution is a major factor in their degeneration.

Absolutely, we need to do more to protect our oceans.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Degeneration is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "generare" (meaning to produce or generate). The word describes a process of moving down or away from a previous state of quality or function, indicating a decline or deterioration.

Memory Tip

Think of 'going down' ('de-') from a state of 'production' or 'generation' ('generare') — that's why degeneration means a decline in quality or function.

Visually Confused Words