deteriorate
verb (used with or without object)
to make or become worse or inferior in condition, character, quality, value, etc.
was deteriorating
-
past progressiveof deteriorate.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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.
His sisters Alexia Hicks and Sophie Volker told BBC Radio 4's Today programme his mental health was deteriorating and that "every day was becoming difficult" for him in recent months.
From BBC ● Sep. 18, 2026
Firas Zreeg, 37, told AFP while weaving through a crowded supermarket that the economy was deteriorating, blaming currency speculators for the fall in the dinar, "which has negative repercussions on our daily lives".
From Barron's ● Feb. 21, 2026
Musk and President Donald Trump’s relationship was deteriorating.
From Barron's ● Dec. 23, 2025
"At about noon that morning, the decision was made, knowing that her condition was deteriorating, I made the choice that it was time," he said.
From BBC ● Aug. 1, 2025
But Ms. W.’s voice was deteriorating at an alarming speed, because now she could only speak in a hoarse whisper, and everybody had to stop with their “please”ing just to hear her.
From "Ida B" by Katherine Hannigan
