degeneration
UK: dɪˌdʒenəˈreɪʃn | US: dɪˌdʒenəˈreɪʃn
n. the process of declining or deteriorating in quality, function, or structure
n. (biology) the loss of specialized function or complexity in cells or tissues
n. (medicine) the pathological breakdown of organs or tissues
The word "degeneration" traces back to Latin degenerare ("to fall from one's kind"), combining de- (indicating reversal or decline) and genus ("race, kind"). The root gener- evolved into English words like "generate" and "generation," reflecting lineage or creation. Over time, "degeneration" came to signify a decline from an original or higher state, often used in biological, medical, and moral contexts.
The degeneration of the old building was evident in its crumbling walls.
Spinal cord degeneration can lead to severe mobility issues.
Environmental pollution accelerates the degeneration of ecosystems.
Critics argue that the film portrays the moral degeneration of society.
Regular exercise may slow the degeneration of muscle tissue with age.