(n) action that makes a problem or a disease (or its symptoms) worse, Syn. exacerbation, Example:the aggravation of her condition resulted from lack of care
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English (GCIDE) v.0.53 Collaborative International Dictionary (GCIDE)
pos>n. [ Cf. F. exacerbation. ] 1. The act of rendering more violent or bitter; the state of being exacerbated or intensified in violence or malignity; as, exacerbation of passion. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. (Med.) A periodical increase of violence in a disease, as in remittent or continuous fever; an increased energy of diseased and painful action. [ 1913 Webster ]