noun the act or process of degrading; the state of being degraded
Degradation of ecosystems due to pollution and deforestation
Degradation of infrastructure such as bridges and roads
Chemical degradation of materials over time
Degradation of proteins in cells leading to disease
Degradation of soil fertility due to erosion and overuse
In the context of writing, degradation can refer to the decline in quality or reputation of a piece of writing, such as a degradation of character development in a novel.
Psychologists may use the term degradation to describe a decline in mental or emotional well-being, such as the degradation of cognitive function in older adults.
Environmental scientists may use degradation to refer to the deterioration of ecosystems or natural resources, such as the degradation of soil quality due to pollution.
Engineers may use degradation to describe the process of a material or system breaking down over time, such as the degradation of infrastructure due to wear and tear.