# degenerative

/dɪˈdʒɛnɝətɪv/ (US) · /dɪdʒˈɛnəɹətˌɪv/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/degenerative
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

describing a disease or physical condition that gets worse over time. It is often used to talk about health problems that affect the brain or body as people get older.

For teachers: characterised by progressive, often irreversible deterioration of cells, tissues, or organs. Often used in medical contexts to describe chronic conditions that result in a loss of function.

## Examples

- Arthritis is a degenerative disease that affects the joints.
- Doctors are researching new treatments to slow down the degenerative effects of the condition on the patient's nervous system.
- While some injuries heal with rest, degenerative conditions require long-term management strategies to maintain the patient's quality of life as the underlying structures continue to weaken.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun like 'disease', 'condition', or 'process'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.