degradation

noun

1. The act of reducing in rank, character, or reputation, or of abasing; a lowering from one's standing or rank in office or society
2. The state of being reduced in rank, character, or reputation; baseness; moral, physical, or intellectual degeneracy; disgrace; abasement; debasement.
3. Diminution or reduction of strength, efficacy, or value; degeneration; deterioration.
4. A gradual wearing down or wasting, as of rocks and banks, by the action of water, frost etc.