degenerate
verb (used without object)
to fall below a normal or desirable level in physical, mental, or moral qualities; deteriorate.
degenerating
-
present participleof degenerate.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
France has been rocked by widespread anger over the rising cost of living and inequality, with nationwide demonstrations on October 17 degenerating into some of the country's worst rioting in years.
From Barron's ● Oct. 30, 2026
Ophelia was kept in hospital for tests for nine days, after which she began a daily oral medication that "maintains muscle cells from degenerating".
From BBC ● Aug. 9, 2026
Not to get too philosophical, but everything alive is degenerating.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 13, 2026
A subtle pathos, along with the playwright’s verbal sophistication, prevents the play from degenerating into a collegiate vaudeville.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 29, 2025
The danger of degenerating into mannerism is incident to every original manner.
From Dickens English Men of Letters by Sir Adolphus William Ward
