1. Deterioration: This is the most common meaning, referring to a decline or worsening of something. Examples include:
* Environmental degradation: The deterioration of the environment due to pollution, deforestation, etc.
* Moral degradation: A decline in ethical standards or behavior.
* Physical degradation: The deterioration of physical materials or structures.
2. Humiliation: In some contexts, "degradation" can mean humiliation or the lowering of someone's status or dignity.
3. Chemical breakdown: In chemistry, "degradation" refers to the breakdown of a substance into simpler components.
If you're unsure which meaning is intended, it's best to check the context of the word or ask for clarification.