Deteriorate
/dɪˈtɪəriəreɪt/noun
To become worse or decline in quality, condition, or value.
Did you know?Deteriorate comes from Latin deterior, meaning “worse,” ultimately tied to the same comparative system that gave English words like “decrease” their sense of moving downward in status or condition.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*de-
“A comparative/superlative-forming element meaning “down, away” or indicating a lesser degree.”
Latin
Latin
deterior
“Worse, inferior.”
Late Latin
Latin
deteriorare
“To make worse; to worsen.”
Middle French
Old French
deteriorer
“To worsen, impair, or damage.”
16th Century
English
deteriorate
“To make or become worse in condition or quality.”
Modern English
English
deteriorate
“To decline or worsen over time.”