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

If neck pain keeps coming back or skin changes continue to worsen, the better next step is to talk with a doctor or dermatologist. — Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 10 Oct. 2026

That would drive up yields on French bonds, making borrowing to fund that spending even more expensive—and thus worsen the problem that the rioters are complaining about. — Jason Ma, Fortune, 10 Oct. 2026

Leitaea Lowrimore, of Oklahoma, sought care at three hospitals across two states as her pain and bleeding worsened, yet did not receive immediate treatment even as doctors acknowledged a possible ectopic pregnancy. — Dara Kass, Washington Post, 9 Oct. 2026

Here's what pet owners can do to prepare before conditions worsen. — ABC News, 9 Oct. 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