The term "exacerbate" means to make a situation or problem worse or more severe. It is often used in contexts such as health, environment, or social issues. For example, if pollution increases in a city, it can exacerbate respiratory problems among the residents. In medicine, certain behaviors or conditions can exacerbate illnesses. For instance, stress can exacerbate symptoms of anxiety or depression. Understanding how to manage these factors is crucial for improving overall well-being and preventing further complications in health-related matters.