exacerbate
verb (used with object)
to increase the severity, bitterness, or violence of (disease, ill feeling, etc.); aggravate.
have exacerbated
-
present perfectof exacerbate.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
The hot weather and lack of rainfall has led to tinder-dry conditions, which have exacerbated the risk of wildfires spreading.
From BBC ● Jul. 31, 2026
The devastating 2025 wildfires, along with enduring problems of homelessness, declining city infrastructure and traffic, have exacerbated discontent.
From Los Angeles Times ● May 31, 2026
Rising electricity costs and changing consumer preferences have exacerbated operators’ challenges.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 26, 2026
Attacks on energy facilities, including Iran’s South Pars gas field and Qatar’s Ras Laffan site, have exacerbated and accelerated the divergence in the past 24 hours.
From Barron's ● Mar. 19, 2026
To keep Ngawang from having to exert himself, which would have exacerbated his edema, at several points during the descent, Beidleman picked up the ailing Sherpa and carried him on his back.
From "Into Thin Air" by Jon Krakauer
