deteriorates
|de-te-ri-o-rates|
B2
🇺🇸
/dɪˈtɪriəreɪt/
🇬🇧
/dɪˈtɪəriəreɪt/
(deteriorate)
become worse
Etymology
Etymology Information
'deteriorate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'deteriorare', where 'deterior' meant 'worse'.
Historical Evolution
'deteriorate' changed from Medieval Latin 'deteriorare' and entered English in the 17th century as 'deteriorate'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to make or become worse', and over time it has retained this core meaning.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
third-person singular present tense of 'deteriorate'.
He deteriorates quickly when he is under stress.
Verb 2
to become worse in quality, condition, or character; to decline.
The building deteriorates without regular maintenance.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2026/01/04 04:04