The term 'deteriorate over time' can be summarized by the word 'ERODE'. ERODE is a verb that means to gradually wear away or be worn away by natural forces such as wind, water, or ice. It is often used to describe the process of erosion, which is the gradual destruction of landforms due to the action of natural elements. In this context, it can be used to describe how something deteriorates over time due to the effects of the environment.