degenerate

de-gen-er-ate · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    To decline or deteriorate physically, mentally, or morally.

  2. 2.

    (biology) To lose functional or structural quality over time.

  3. 3.

    Having declined from a former or original state; degraded.

  4. 4.

    A person whose behavior is considered morally corrupt.

Related words

Antonyms: develop, improve, progress, regenerate
See also: decay, decline, degeneration, deteriorate
Synonyms: decay, decline, degrade, deteriorate, worsen

Etymology

From Latin degeneratus, past participle of degenerare meaning "to be inferior to one's ancestors, to decline," from de- (down from) + genus, generis (race, kind). The word reflects the ancient belief that offspring could "fall away" from the qualities of their lineage.