worsen

verb

wors·​en ˈwər-sᵊn 

worsened; worsening

ˈwərs-niŋ, 

ˈwər-sᵊn-iŋ 

transitive verb

: to make worse

intransitive verb

: to become worse

the weather began to worsen

Synonyms of worsen

• deteriorate
• crumble
• descend
• decline

Examples of worsen in a Sentence

Spending more money is only going to worsen the problem.

the condition of the house worsened with every year of neglect

Recent Examples on the Web

According to court documents, Wilson’s relationship with the producers had started deteriorating before filming began in 2023 – and worsened during post-production. — Hilary Whiteman, CNN Money, 22 July 2026

Weakening commodity prices and a worsening industrial relations climate in Australia is draining investor enthusiasm for the world’s biggest mining company, BHP. — Tim Treadgold, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026

Health officials say anyone bitten by a rattlesnake should seek emergency medical care immediately, remain as still as possible and avoid attempting home remedies that can worsen the injury. — Brittany Miller, FOXNews.com, 21 July 2026

Most dogs can comfortably enjoy outdoor activities at temperatures ranging from 45 to 70 degrees, Boyers said, although humidity can worsen conditions. — Hali Smith july 21, Idaho Statesman, 21 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Rhymes for worsen

• person
• businessperson
• chairperson
• layperson
• salesperson

Kids Definition

worsen

verb

wors·​en ˈwərs-ᵊn 

worsened; worsening ˈwərs-niŋ 

-ᵊn-iŋ

: to make or become worse

the weather worsened