Meaning & Definition of word "Degradation"

Degradation

/ˌdɛɡrəˈdeɪʃən/

1. The process of degrading or being degraded; a decline to a lower quality or level.
- Example: The degradation of the environment due to pollution is a serious concern.
2. A reduction in the quality or value of something.
- Example: The degradation of the soil has led to lower crop yields.
3. The state of being brought down to a lower, inferior level.
- Example: The degradation of moral standards in society is alarming.
4. A decline in dignity or respect.
- Example: He felt the degradation of his position when he was demoted.
5. In ecology, the decline of an ecosystem or biome.
- Example: The degradation of coral reefs affects marine biodiversity.

From Latin degradatio, from de- 'down' + gradatio 'step, degree'.

moral degradation:

a decline in moral standards.

environmental degradation:

the deterioration of the environment through depletion of resources.

degradation of the ecosystem:

the process through which natural environments are degraded, leading to loss of biodiversity.

degrade:

to lower in dignity or status.

degradative:

relating to or causing degradation.

degradationist:

a person who holds a belief or practices that undermine respect for the environment.

Meaning: loss of status or respect

Example Sentence: His actions led to a serious degradation in his reputation.