worsen
verb (used with or without object)
to make or become worse.
had worsened
-
past perfectof worsen.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
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.
She told staff that her neuroimmune condition had worsened and recovery would be much longer than anticipated.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 11, 2026
He argued the issue had worsened because tech firms had chosen not to make child safety "a core design principle".
From BBC ● May 21, 2026
A recent report by the California Department of Justice found that conditions had worsened at the immigration detention centers in the state.
From Los Angeles Times ● May 21, 2026
In France, Health Minister Stéphanie Rist said the woman who had tested positive was hospitalized in a specialized unit and her condition had worsened overnight.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 11, 2026
Hunt grimaced; the trip from New York and the excursion to Jackson Park had worsened his gout.
From "The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson
