Synonyms of deterioration

deterioration

noun

di-ˌtir-ē-ə-ˈrā-shən 

1

as in weakening

a gradual sinking and wasting away of mind or body

muscle deterioration resulting from prolonged disuse

Synonyms & Similar Words

• weakening
• decay
• decline
• decaying
• exhaustion
• degeneration
• debilitation
• descent
• ebbing
• enfeeblement
• declension
• atrophy
• regression
• setback
• drooping
• relapse
• flagging
• limping

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• improvement
• recovery
• rehabilitation
• revitalization
• recuperation
• strengthening
• progress
• rally
• comeback
• invigoration
• snapback
• rejuvenation
• rejuvenescence

2

as in degradation

a change to a lower state or level

a deterioration in the quality of food at that once-thriving restaurant

Synonyms & Similar Words

• degradation
• decline
• declination
• descent
• degeneration
• downfall
• decadence
• decrease
• destruction
• reduction
• ebb
• degeneracy
• devolution
• fall
• downgrade
• eclipse
• decay
• declension
• dissolution
• disintegration
• decomposition
• loss
• drop
• dégringolade
• crumbling
• rotting
• breakup
• dark age
• spoiling
• sunset
• depreciation
• debasement
• dip
• shrinkage
• diminution
• slump
• nadir
• ruination
• lessening
• demolition
• diminishment
• lowering
• decimation
• abasement
• downturn
• ruin
• havoc
• deflation
• decrement
• falloff
• sag
• drop-off
• downslide
• desolation
• abatement
• downtrend
• demolishment
• slip
• de-escalation

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• development
• growth
• rise
• evolution
• advancement
• ascent
• restoration
• upswing
• flowering
• renewal
• increase
• revitalization
• enhancement
• addition
• gain
• flourishing
• blossoming
• increment
• augmentation
• boost
• accrual
• supplement
• raise
• accretion
• heightening
• addendum

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun deterioration differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of deterioration are decadence, decline, and degeneration. While all these words mean "the falling from a higher to a lower level in quality, character, or vitality," deterioration implies generally the impairment of value or usefulness.

the deterioration of the house through neglect

When can decadence be used instead of deterioration?

In some situations, the words decadence and deterioration are roughly equivalent. However, decadence presupposes a reaching and passing the peak of development and implies a turn downward with a consequent loss in vitality or energy.

cited love of luxury as a sign of cultural decadence

How do decline and decadence relate to one another, in the sense of deterioration?

Decline differs from decadence in suggesting a more markedly downward direction and greater momentum as well as more obvious evidence of deterioration.

the meteoric decline of his career after the scandal

When could degeneration be used to replace deterioration?

The words degeneration and deterioration are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, degeneration stresses physical, intellectual, or especially moral retrogression.

the degeneration of their youthful idealism into cynicism

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of deterioration

Retail spending, which is the lifeblood of the economy, is waning, while measures of consumer confidence show a sharp deterioration of late. —Megan Cerullo, CBS News, 12 Mar. 2025

The Challenger report raised concerns about a coming deterioration in the labor market as the Trump administration moves to shrink the federal government and tariffs weigh on business decisions. —Bloomberg News, Chicago Tribune, 6 Mar. 2025

Roads and bridges are designed with strict weight limits for a reason: excessive loads accelerate structural deterioration, leading to costly repairs and safety hazards. —Ydanis Rodriguez, New York Daily News, 9 Mar. 2025

In addition to this, using excessive water or harsh chemical cleaners can then lead to moisture accumulation around window seals, which can potentially cause mould growth or deterioration of the frame around the windows. —Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 8 Mar. 2025