aging

The process of getting older or developing over time.

• Aging is a natural process.
• Regular exercise can support healthy aging.
• The aging of cheese changes its taste.

Similar words: growing older, maturation

Common phrases: natural aging, healthy aging, population aging

The gradual loss of quality or strength in a material or object over time.

• Aging made the rubber crack.
• The cables showed signs of aging.
• Heat can speed up the aging of plastic parts.

Similar words: wear, deterioration

Common phrases: material aging, aging of rubber, aging of equipment

The gradual damage to cells and body parts as time passes.

• The researchers studied aging in human cells.
• Cellular aging can affect how tissues repair themselves.
• The study linked biological aging to damage in proteins.

Similar words: senescence

Common phrases: cellular aging, biological aging, aging research

Making something look or become older than it really is.

• Artificial aging gave the table an antique look.
• The film crew used aging to make new props look ancient.
• Aging of the painted surface took several hours.

Similar words: distressing

Common phrases: artificial aging, aging technique, aging of wood

Getting old, especially when this affects health or ability.

• She cares for her aging mother.
• The aging actor still enjoys performing.
• An aging population needs more health services.

Similar words: growing old, elderly

Common phrases: aging parents, aging population, aging actor