WORSENS Synonyms: 79 Similar and Opposite Words

worsens

verb

Definition of worsens next

present tense third-person singular of worsen

as in deteriorates

to become worse or of less value the condition of the house worsened with every year of neglect

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in deepens

to make more severe the harsh winter only worsened the fuel shortage

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of worsens This can create a cycle where stress worsens physical symptoms and, in turn, the symptoms increase stress and anxiety. —

Suchandrima Bhowmik, Health, 15 May 2026 The steps taken in the hours and days after receiving that notice can play a major role in determining how much income is protected, and, ultimately, whether the situation worsens or becomes more manageable. —

Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 14 May 2026 The energy shock is complicating hopes for a swift rate cut, with investors now expecting the Fed to keep its benchmark lending rate unchanged for the rest of the year — or even raise rates if inflation worsens. —

Bryan Mena, CNN Money, 13 May 2026 As every desperate attempt to escape only worsens his situation, Barry realizes the attack is connected to a devastating secret from his past. —

Zac Ntim, Deadline, 12 May 2026 Overall, Stewart said grade fluctuations can occur when a hospital’s performance worsens or fails to improve at the same pace as other hospitals. —

Daniel I. Dorfman, Chicago Tribune, 11 May 2026 That worsens overcapacity and deflation, while preventing that capital from going to healthier borrowers. —

Jason Ma, Fortune, 11 May 2026 As the illness worsens, more severe symptoms can develop, like coughing, chest tightness and shortness of breath as fluid builds up in the lungs. —

Tiffani Jackson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 7 May 2026 Pain in the hand, wrist and thumb that worsens or prevents you from gripping, pinching or holding items. —

Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA Today, 6 May 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for worsens

Verb

That is why a hedge here makes sense while markets sit near highs, VIX remains compressed near the high teens, and investors are still leaning heavily into a handful of leadership names as the macro backdrop deteriorates.

— Tony Zhang, CNBC, 13 May 2026
Hospitals use the same billing codes for the ER visit, whether a patient’s condition deteriorates or not.

— Andrew Jones, Miami Herald, 28 Apr. 2026