worse

American  

[wurs] / wɜrs /

adjective

1. bad or ill in a greater or higher degree; inferior in excellence, quality, or character.

2. more unfavorable or injurious.

3. in less good condition; in poorer health.

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noun

1. that which is worse.

adverb

1. in a more evil, wicked, severe, or disadvantageous manner.

2. with more severity, intensity, etc.; in a greater degree.

worse British  

/ wɜːs /

adjective

1. the comparative of bad 1

2. not harmed by (adverse events or circumstances)

3. 1. shabby or worn

   2. a slang term for drunk

4. informal unhappily; unfortunately

5. (postpositive) in a worse, esp a worse financial, condition

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noun

1. something that is worse

2. into a less desirable or inferior state or condition

   a change for the worse

3. to deteriorate even more

adverb

1. in a more severe or unpleasant manner

2. in a less effective or successful manner

worse Idioms  

More idioms and phrases containing worse

• all the (worse)
• bark is worse than one's bite
• fate worse than death
• for better or for worse
• from bad to worse
• if worst comes to worst
• none the worse
• take a turn for the better (worse)
• worst

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Etymology

Origin of worse

First recorded before 900; Middle English (adjective, adverb, and noun); Old English wiersa (comparative adjective), wiers (adverb); cognate with Old Norse verri, Gothic wairsiza; war ²

Example Sentences

To make matters worse, stagflation worries are preventing bonds from providing their usual cushion to investment portfolios.

From The Wall Street Journal

Christine Hamilton and Dr. Vic St. John got engaged so quickly and exhibited so little tension that people called them adorable but boring or, worse, ringers.

From Salon

The obfuscation got even worse on Saturday when a reporter quizzed Hegseth aboard Air Force One.

From Salon

Those with long memories smell stagflation—a troubling mix of stagnant growth and stubborn inflation—or worse, recession.

From The Wall Street Journal

The investment question now is whether signs of worry are a reason to buy the dip, or a reason to get out before things get even worse.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• bad
• poor