degradation

noun

1. 1

   The act of reducing in rank, character, or reputation, or of abasing; a lowering from one's standing or rank in office or society

2. 2

   The state of being reduced in rank, character, or reputation; baseness; moral, physical, or intellectual degeneracy; disgrace; abasement; debasement.

3. 3

   Diminution or reduction of strength, efficacy, or value; degeneration; deterioration.

4. 4

   A gradual wearing down or wasting, as of rocks and banks, by the action of water, frost etc.

5. 5

   A deleterious change in the chemical structure, physical properties or appearance of a material from natural or artificial exposure.

6. 6

   The state or condition of a species or group which exhibits degraded forms; degeneration.

7. 7

   Arrest of development, or degeneration of any organ, or of the body as a whole.

8. 8

   The gradual breakdown of components of a material, as a result of a natural element, i.e.: heat, cold and wind.