decay, decompose, rot, putrefy, spoil mean to undergo destructive dissolution. decay implies a slow change from a state of soundness or perfection.

Look up decay in Wiktionary, the free dictionary.

decay, decompose, rot, putrefy, and spoil mean to slowly fall apart and become destroyed by natural processes. decay is the most general of these terms. It often suggests a slow change …

The bacteria live on food particles and produce acid that decays the enamel on your teeth. The flesh on a dead body decays very rapidly. It's sad to watch a beautiful rose wither and decay in …

Decay has wide application but often suggests partial deterioration short of complete destruction: "A decaying dam is an accident waiting to happen" (George Black).

Nov 1, 2025 · decay (third-person singular simple present decays, present participle decaying, simple past and past participle decayed) (intransitive) To deteriorate, to get worse, to lose …

Decay is also a noun. When not removed, plaque causes tooth decay and gum disease.

Definition of decay noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Some common synonyms of decay are decompose, putrefy, rot, and spoil. While all these words mean "to undergo destructive dissolution," decay implies a slow change from a state of …

Decay, decompose, disintegrate, rot imply a deterioration or falling away from a sound condition. Decay implies either entire or partial deterioration by progressive natural changes: Teeth decay.