decay
/dɪˈkeɪ/
verb
- To rot or break down gradually, usually because of natural processes.
- If you leave fruit out too long, it will decay and attract flies.
- The old wooden fence began to decay after years of rain and sun.
- Leaves decay on the forest floor, returning nutrients to the soil.
- To decline in quality, power, or strength over time.
- His health continued to decay after the diagnosis.
- The empire began to decay as corruption spread among its leaders.
- Without proper maintenance, the building's structure started to decay.
Synonyms
noun
- The process of rotting or breaking down.
- Decay of organic matter is essential for creating rich soil.
- The dentist said the tooth had a small area of decay that needed filling.
- The smell of decay filled the abandoned house.
- A gradual decline in quality, power, or strength.
- Moral decay in society was a common theme in his novels.
- The decay of the old factory left many people without jobs.
- The city's decay was visible in its crumbling roads and empty buildings.