degenerative

[dih-jen-er-uh-tiv, -uh-rey-tiv] / dɪˈdʒɛn ər ə tɪv, -əˌreɪ tɪv /

ADJECTIVE

tending to diminish in quality

Synonyms

STRONGEST

backward deteriorating regressive retrogressive

STRONG

declinatory depressive dwindling frittering

WEAK

deleterious

Antonyms

STRONGEST

improving progressive

WEAK

expanding growing

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Petrou was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, a degenerative disorder that leads to vision loss, at age 18.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 12, 2026

The researchers say these findings challenge the routine practice of recommending exercise as the first line treatment for reducing pain and improving mobility in people with this degenerative joint disease.

From Science Daily • Feb. 25, 2026

ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a rare degenerative disease that causes progressive paralysis of the muscles.

From BBC • Feb. 19, 2026

Also posted to the “We’re Not Gonna Take It” singer’s Instagram account, the statement said that Snider “has had several surgeries over the years” to help manage his degenerative arthritis.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 6, 2026

Because these small amounts of pesticides are cumulatively stored and only slowly excreted, the threat of chronic poisoning and degenerative changes of the liver and other organs is very real.

From "Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson