1. the state of having declined from a former or normal condition; deterioration in quality, character, or function
2. immoral or corrupt behavior or character
3. a condition in which multiple quantum states have the same energy level
Usage: physics

Examples

• The degeneracy of the old building was evident in its crumbling walls.
• Social critics warned about the moral degeneracy of modern society.
• The degeneracy of the political system led to widespread corruption.
• Urban planners studied the degeneracy of the downtown district.
• The physicist explained the concept of degeneracy in atomic energy levels.
• Historical accounts described the degeneracy of the empire’s final years.