# deterioration

/dɪˈtɪɹiɝˌeɪʃən/ (US) · /dɪtˌiəɹiəɹˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/deterioration
Updated: 2026-05-04

## Definition

the process of becoming worse in quality or condition. You use this word when something gradually loses its value, strength, or health.

For teachers: the process of becoming progressively worse in quality, value, or condition; decline.

## Examples

- The deterioration of the old bridge worried the town council.
- Doctors noted a rapid deterioration in his health after the surgery.
- The slow deterioration of the manuscript's ink made it nearly impossible to read the final chapter without special lighting.

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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.