DEGENERACY Meaning and
Definition
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Degeneracy is a noun that refers to the state or condition of being degenerate. Primarily, it describes a decline from a previously standard or acceptable level of behavior, morality, or quality. Degeneracy suggests a deterioration or decay from a higher or more desirable state, resulting in a lower or less virtuous condition.
In a social or cultural sense, degeneracy implies a shift away from traditional values or norms and their replacement by more morally questionable or socially unacceptable practices. It can involve an erosion of decency, integrity, or ethical principles within a society or a particular group. Degeneracy often corresponds to the loss of moral or ethical standards, leading to a pervasive sense of corruption or decay.
The term can also be applied in scientific or mathematical contexts, such as in physics or genetics. In these disciplines, degeneracy refers to the existence of multiple states or solutions that correspond to the same or similar outcomes. It indicates a limited ability to discriminate between options or a breakdown of distinctiveness, leading to a loss of specific characteristics or qualities.
Overall, degeneracy conveys a sense of decline, decay, or moral erosion, whether in social, ethical, or scientific contexts. It embodies the idea of a regression from higher standards or a departure from established norms or values.
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A growing worse; decline in good qualities; vice; meanness.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for DEGENERACY *
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Other Common Misspellings for DEGENERACY
Etymology of DEGENERACY
The word "degeneracy" has its roots in the Latin word "degener" which means "having fallen from a former rank or quality". The Latin term is derived from the combination of the prefix "de-" (meaning "down") and "generare" (meaning "to beget" or "to produce"). Thus, "degener" originally referred to something or someone that had declined from its original state, deviated from its proper course, or become inferior in quality.
Over time, this Latin term evolved into the Old French word "degenere" with a similar meaning of "not genuine" or "lacking true qualities". The term then entered Middle English as "degenerate" around the 15th century, retaining the idea of moral or physical decline.
Similar spelling words for DEGENERACY
- degeneration,
- Degenhardt,
- degenerative,
- toogenerous,
- non-degeneracy,
- DeGeneres,
- degeneriaceae,
- dejeuners,
- degenerate,
- decennary,
- dejeuner,
- deschner,
- Degenerous.
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