Definition

A worsening or intensification of a condition, often referring to a disease or problem becoming more severe.

Example

The exacerbation of her asthma made it difficult for her to breathe.

Conversation

Have you noticed any exacerbation of your allergies lately?

Yeah, they’ve been really bad this season.

I think the pollen levels are high, which might be causing the exacerbation.

Exactly! I should probably start taking my medication more regularly.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Exacerbation → It is formed from "ex-" (meaning out of or from) and "acerbare" (meaning to make harsh or bitter). The word describes the act of making a situation worse or more severe, as if bringing out the harshness.

Memory Tip

Think of 'bringing out' ('ex-') the 'harshness' ('acerbare') of a situation — that's why exacerbation means making something worse.

Visually Confused Words