neurodegenerative

adjective

neu·​ro·​de·​gen·​er·​a·​tive ˌnu̇r-ō-di-ˈje-nə-rə-tiv 

-ˈjen-rə-;

-ˈje-nə-ˌrā-;

-dē-,

ˌnyu̇r-

: relating to or marked by degeneration of nervous tissue

Examples of neurodegenerative in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Moreover, Mechoulam’s research on cannabinoids has played a critical role in understanding the plant’s potential to treat pain, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases. —Matt Rozo, The Mercury News, 6 Jan. 2025

The profiles of the animals’ genes fit a pattern that suggests long-term damage akin to the effects of Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s, and other neurodegenerative diseases. —Kylie Mohr, WIRED, 4 Jan. 2025

Excessive alcohol use is linked to cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, and mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression often co-occur with high levels of drinking. —Cassie Shortsleeve, SELF, 3 Jan. 2025

Regarding longer-term brain health, both coffee and tea consumption have been linked to a lower risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease. —Sarah Anzlovar, Ms, Rd, Verywell Health, 10 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1907, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

neurodegenerative

adjective

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

: relating to or characterized by degeneration of nervous tissue

neurodegeneration

-di-ˌjen-ə-ˈrā-shən, -ˌdē- 

noun