WORSE
Worse, v. t. Etym: [OE. wursien, AS. wyrsian to become worse.]
Defn: To make worse; to put disadvantage; to discomfit; to worst. See
Worst, v.
Weapons more violent, when next we meet, May serve to better us and
worse our foes. Milton.
WORSEN
Wors"en, v. t.
1. To make worse; to deteriorate; to impair. It is apparent that, in the particular point of which we have been conversing, their condition is greatly worsened. Southey.
2. To get the better of; to worst. [R.]
WORSEN
Wors"en, v. i.
Defn: To grow or become worse. De Quincey.
Indifferent health, which seemed rather to worsen than improve.
Carlyle.
WORSER
Wors"er, a.
Defn: Worse. [R.]
Thou dost deserve a worser end. Beau. & Fl.
From worser thoughts which make me do amiss. Bunyan.
A dreadful quiet felt, and, worser far Than arms, a sullen interval
of war. Dryden.
Note: This old and redundant form of the comparative occurs occasionally in the best authors, although commonly accounted a vulgarism. It has, at least, the analogy of lesser to sanction its issue. See Lesser. "The experience of man's worser nature, which intercourse with ill-chosen associates, by choice or circumstance, peculiarly teaches." Hallam.