degenerate
Translation
to degenerate, to deteriorate, to decline
Examples
The debate quickly degenerated into an argument.
The debate quickly degenerated into an argument.
His health has degenerated over the past year.
His health has degenerated over the past year.
Grammar Patterns
((into sth.)) to change to a worse state or condition The debate quickly degenerated into an argument.
Similar Words
Synonyms: deteriorate, decline; Antonyms: improve, progress
Etymology
Etymology: From Latin 'degenerare', from 'de-' (away from) + 'genus' (race, kind). To fall from the ancestral quality.
Memory Tips
Think 'de-generate' – to move away from a good generation or state to a worse one.