noun
decrepitude
di-KREP-i-tood/dɪˈkrepɪtuːd/
A state of weakness or deterioration caused by age, wear, or neglect.
The bench's sagging seat and split slats reveal its decrepitude.
Etymology
French décrépitude names the condition of being broken down by infirmity. The emphasis is not simply on great age, but on the weakness and deterioration associated with it.
In context
Rousseau promotes the value of nature over the decrepitude of culture
More examples
- Despite his physical decrepitude, his mind remains sharp.
- The rusty machinery shows unmistakable signs of decrepitude.
- They rescue the farmhouse from decrepitude through careful repairs.
Forms
decrepit adjective — Weakened or worn out by age.
Similar words
- dilapidation
- Usually describes buildings or objects damaged by wear or neglect.
- infirmity
- Emphasizes physical weakness or illness, especially in older people.
- decay
- Emphasizes gradual breakdown rather than the resulting weakened condition.