Exacerbate

Exacerbate is a verb meaning to make a problem, situation, or condition worse or more severe; to increase the negative impact of an existing issue. It is commonly used for symptoms, difficulties, conflicts, or negative outcomes. The related noun is exacerbation.

Etymology: The word comes from Late Latin exacerbatus, formed from ex- 'thoroughly' and acerbus 'bitter, harsh,' via Old French exacerber before entering English in the 17th century.

Usage: Exacerbate is typically used when a factor worsens something that is already problematic. It is similar in sense to aggravate or worsen, but it emphasizes intensification rather than mere add-on. It should not be confused with exasperate, which means to irritate or annoy greatly. In medicine, the term 'exacerbation' describes a temporary worsening of disease symptoms; in climate or policy contexts, it can describe events that deepen harm.

Examples: Ignoring maintenance could exacerbate the leak. Severe weather can exacerbate flood damage. Exacerbate synonyms: worsen, aggravate, intensify. Antonyms: relieve, alleviate, mitigate. See also: exasperate, exacerbation.