Decay, decompose, rot, putrefy, spoil mean to undergo destructive dissolution While all these words mean to undergo destructive dissolution, decay implies a slow change from a state of soundness or perfection. Decay implies a slow change from a state of soundness or perfection.
To become gradually damaged, worse, or less Some common synonyms of decay are decompose, putrefy, rot, and spoil To cause something to do this
The rotting timbers gave way under the added weight. 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 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 from a state of strength or perfection. There are 13 meanings listed in oed's entry for the noun decay, six of which are labelled obsolete See ‘meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.
Some atomic nuclei are inherently unstable, and over time they spontaneously emit particles or radiation to reach stability This page describes the various decay pathways by which an unstable nuclei achieves stability To decay means to rot, decompose, break down Our bodies—anything organic—will decay after death
Broken sidewalks, potholes, graffiti are all signs of urban decay Tooth decay is something to avoid. 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
Plants and animals decay into the soil, replenishing the minerals and nutrients.
