Degradation

/ˌdɛɡrəˈdeɪʃən/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The process of degrading or being degraded; a decline to a lower quality or level.

The degradation of the environment due to pollution is a serious concern.

A reduction in the quality or value of something.

The degradation of the soil has led to lower crop yields.

The state of being brought down to a lower, inferior level.

The degradation of moral standards in society is alarming.

A decline in dignity or respect.

He felt the degradation of his position when he was demoted.

In ecology, the decline of an ecosystem or biome.

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.

loss of status or respect

His actions led to a serious degradation in his reputation.