Degenerate/dɪˈdʒenəreɪt/ Definition 1 of 4Pro Tip 1/2Negative Connotation Used to express a strong disapproval, often of behavior or quality. He gave up on his dreams and led a degenerate lifestyle. Pro Tip 2/2Physical Decline Refers to physical objects deteriorating, not just people or society. The abandoned house became degenerate, with its walls crumbling.