Decay implies a slow change from a state of soundness or perfection. To become gradually damaged, worse, or less To cause something to do this Rot and decompose are closely synonymous with decay, but rot often emphasizes loss of structural integrity while decompose generally stresses breaking down into chemical components 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 It's sad to watch a beautiful rose wither and decay in such a short time Plants and animals decay into the soil, replenishing the minerals and nutrients. 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 soundness or perfection.
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