What does the term "exacerbate" mean?

The term "exacerbate" refers to the action of making a problem, situation, or condition worse or more severe. This can apply to various contexts such as health conditions, social issues, or emotional states. For example, a patient’s symptoms may exacerbate if they engage in certain behaviors or if they are exposed to specific environmental factors. Thus, in understanding the nuances of language, recognizing that exacerbating involves intensifying or aggravating a negative condition is crucial. This understanding of the term is important for effectively communicating about problems that require attention or remediation.