What does the term 'deteriorate' mean?

The term 'deteriorate' refers to a decline in quality or value over time. When something deteriorates, it becomes worse in condition or effectiveness, which can apply to physical objects, systems, or even relationships. This concept is crucial in many contexts, such as maintenance, health, and ecosystem stability, where recognizing deterioration can lead to timely intervention or restoration efforts. Understanding this term enables a clearer grasp of various processes, particularly in fields related to both environmental management and quality control, where the goal is often to prevent deterioration and enhance longevity. The other options suggest improvement, maintenance, or enhancement, which are contrary to the meaning of deterioration.