degenerative
UK: dɪˈdʒenərətɪv | US: dɪˈdʒenərətɪv
adj. relating to or causing gradual deterioration of structure or function (e.g., diseases, conditions)
adj. declining in quality or vitality over time
degenerative = de<down/away> + gener<produce/kind> + ative<adjective suffix>
- de: Prefix meaning "down" or "away" (Latin de-).
- gener: Root meaning "produce" or "kind" (Latin genus, related to birth or origin).
- ative: Adjective-forming suffix indicating a tendency or relationship (Latin -ativus).
Etymology Origin:
Derived from Latin degenerare ("to decline from ancestral quality"), combining de- (downward) + genus (origin, race). The term evolved in medical contexts to describe conditions (e.g., degenerative diseases) where tissues or functions progressively worsen, reflecting the literal "falling away from healthy generation."
Alzheimer's is a degenerative disease affecting memory and cognitive function.
The doctor explained the degenerative changes in her knee cartilage.
Without treatment, the condition may follow a degenerative course.
Aging often involves degenerative processes in cells and organs.
The study focuses on slowing degenerative disorders in the nervous system.