degenerative

adjective

de·​gen·​er·​a·​tive di-ˈje-nə-rə-tiv 

-ˈjen-rə-;

-ˈje-nə-ˌrā-;

dē-

: of, relating to, involving, or causing degeneration

a degenerative disease

Did you know?

Degenerative diseases—including cancer, glaucoma, Parkinson's, diabetes, arthritis, and leprosy—are usually contrasted with infectious diseases (diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa). However, many infectious diseases (Lyme disease, AIDS, etc.) can cause a body or body part to degenerate, and infective organisms play a part in some degenerative diseases. Some degenerative diseases can be controlled; some can even be cured. But no one has yet discovered a way to reverse such degenerative conditions as multiple sclerosis, emphysema, or Alzheimer's.

Examples of degenerative in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Has antibacterial properties The antioxidants in tahini could protect brain cells, preventing degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. —Alessandra Signorelli, Vogue, 31 May 2025

During his time at the White House, he was recognized for raising awareness of the incurable degenerative disorder. —Angel Saunders, People.com, 31 May 2025

Subsequent study of Thomas’ brain led to a 2022 announcement that Boston University researchers had diagnosed him with Stage 2 chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease caused by repetitive head trauma. —Parker Gabriel, Denver Post, 27 May 2025

Jackson kicked off the tour just one year after revealing his battle with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a degenerative nerve condition that affects his motor skills. —Tracy Wright, FOXNews.com, 19 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1846, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for degenerative

• regenerative
• generative
• neurodegenerative

Kids Definition

degenerative

adjective

de·​gen·​er·​a·​tive di-ˈjen-ə-ˌrāt-iv 

-ˈjen-(ə-)rət-iv

: of, relating to, or tending to cause degeneration

a degenerative disease

Medical Definition

degenerative

adjective

de·​gen·​er·​a·​tive di-ˈjen-ə-ˌrāt-iv  -ˈjen-(ə-)rət- 

: of, relating to, involving, or tending to cause degeneration

degenerative conditions of the nervous system

—Morris Fishbein

degenerative changes

a degenerative muscle disorder