3. (Biol.)
Defn: A gradual deterioration, from natural causes, of any class of animals or plants or any particular or organs; hereditary degradation of type.
4. The thing degenerated. [R.]
Cockle, aracus, . . . and other degenerations. Sir T. Browne.
Amyloid degeneration, Caseous degeneration, etc. See under Amyloid,
Caseous, etc.
DEGENERATIONIST
De*gen`er*a"tion*ist, n. (Biol.)
Defn: A believer in the theory of degeneration, or hereditary degradation of type; as, the degenerationists hold that savagery is the result of degeneration from a superior state.
DEGENERATIVE
De*gen"er*a*tive, a.
Defn: Undergoing or producing degeneration; tending to degenerate.
DEGENEROUS
De*gen"er*ous, a. Etym: [L. degener. See Degenerate.]
Defn: Degenerate; base. [Obs.] "Degenerous passions." Dryden.
"Degenerous practices." South.
DEGENEROUSLY
De*gen"er*ous*ly, adv.