1. relating to or causing the gradual deterioration or breakdown of cells, tissues, or organs
Usage: medical
2. characterized by progressive decline or decay

Examples

• The patient was diagnosed with a degenerative joint disease.
• Alzheimer’s is a degenerative condition that affects memory.
• The degenerative changes in his spine caused chronic pain.
• She suffers from a degenerative eye disorder.
• The degenerative effects of aging become more apparent over time.
• Physical therapy can slow degenerative muscle loss.
• The degenerative process cannot be reversed but can be managed.