The word "degenerative" is spelled as dɪˈdʒɛn(ə)rətɪv. The first syllable "de" is pronounced as "dɪ", while the second syllable "gen" is pronounced as "dʒɛn". The third syllable "er" is pronounced as "ər" and the final syllable "ative" is pronounced as "ətɪv". The word describes something that progressively deteriorates or declines, often used in reference to diseases that gradually weaken the body or mind. The correct spelling is important in medical contexts, as it can impact diagnosis and treatment.
Degenerative (adjective) refers to a process of progressive deterioration or decline. It describes a condition or disease that gradually worsens over time, often resulting in a loss of function or capability of a particular organ or body system.
In a medical context, degenerative refers to the gradual breakdown, deterioration, or wasting away of tissues or organs. It commonly characterizes conditions such as degenerative disc disease or degenerative joint disease, where the structures of the spinal discs or joints progressively deteriorate or wear out.
The term can also be used in a broader sense to describe the decline or deterioration of any system, whether it is a biological, social, or cultural system. For instance, societal norms might undergo degenerative changes over time, leading to the erosion of traditional values or beliefs. In evolutionary biology, it can describe the gradual loss of complexity or functionality in an organism or a particular trait due to natural selection.
In summary, degenerative refers to the progressive decline or deterioration of an organ, system, or characteristic over time. It typically implies a gradual loss of functionality, and the term finds application in various fields, including medicine, biology, and social sciences.
Relating to degeneration.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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The word "degenerative" is derived from the Latin verb "degenerare", which means "to deteriorate" or "to become worse". It is formed by combining "de", meaning "down" or "away", and "generare", meaning "to generate" or "to produce". Hence, "degenerative" refers to the process of deterioration or decline in quality, function, or structure over time.