Definition of DEGRADATION

degradation

Meanings

Plural: degradations

Noun

  • changing to a lower state (a less respected state)
  • a low or downcast state; - H.L.Menchken
  • The act of reducing in rank, character, or reputation, or of abasing; a lowering from one's standing or rank in office or society
  • The state of being reduced in rank, character, or reputation; baseness; moral, physical, or intellectual degeneracy; disgrace; abasement; debasement.
  • Diminution or reduction of strength, efficacy, or value; degeneration; deterioration.
  • A gradual wearing down or wasting, as of rocks and banks, by the action of water, frost etc.
  • A deleterious change in the chemical structure, physical properties or appearance of a material from natural or artificial exposure.
  • The state or condition of a species or group which exhibits degraded forms; degeneration.
  • Arrest of development, or degeneration of any organ, or of the body as a whole.
  • The gradual breakdown of components of a material, as a result of a natural element, i.e.: heat, cold and wind.

Origin / Etymology

From French dégradation. Morphologically degrade + -ation.

Scrabble Score: 14

degradation is a valid Scrabble (US) TWL word
degradation is a valid Scrabble Word in Merriam-Webster MW Dictionary
degradation is a valid Scrabble Word in International Collins CSW Dictionary

Words With Friends Score: 16

degradation is a valid Words With Friends word