deteriorate
UK: dɪˈtɪəriəreɪt | US: dɪˈtɪriəreɪt
vi. to become progressively worse in quality or condition
vt. to cause something to decline in quality or value
The word traces back to Latin deteriorare ("to make worse"), derived from deterior ("worse"). The root reflects a downward progression, combining the notion of decline (de-) with a comparative form (-ter). Over time, it evolved in English (16th century) to describe gradual degradation, retaining its core logic of "moving toward a worse state."
Without maintenance, the building's structure will deteriorate rapidly.
His health began to deteriorate after years of neglect.
The political situation in the region continues to deteriorate.
Exposure to sunlight can cause the paint to deteriorate.
Economic sanctions may deteriorate diplomatic relations.