Meaning of the word exacerbated in English

What does exacerbated mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

exacerbated

US /ɪɡˈzæs.ər.beɪ.tɪd/
UK /ɪɡˈzæs.ə.beɪ.tɪd/

Verb

to make a problem, bad situation, or negative feeling worse

Example:
The new policy only exacerbated the existing social tensions.
His rude comments exacerbated the already tense atmosphere.