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decay

verb

/dɪˈkeɪ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of decay

To gradually deteriorate or decompose, often resulting in the loss of structure, functionality, or vitality over time.
"The old wooden fence began to decay after years of exposure to the elements."

Detailed meaning of decay

When something decays, it undergoes a natural or gradual breakdown, often due to factors such as time, environmental conditions, or biological processes. Decay can occur in various forms, including physical decay, where objects or materials break down, disintegrate, or erode, as well as biological decay, where organic matter decomposes and breaks down into simpler substances. This verb is commonly used to describe the deterioration of organic matter, such as food, plants, or animal matter, as well as the gradual wearing down or breakdown of inanimate objects, like buildings or infrastructure. Figuratively, 'decay' can also be used to describe the decline or deterioration of concepts, institutions, or societal values. Overall, 'decay' signifies a natural or gradual process of decline, disintegration, or decomposition that leads to a loss of integrity, functionality, or vitality.

Example sentences containing decay

1. The toothbrush started to decay when left in a damp environment.
2. The abandoned building slowly decayed, its walls crumbling and paint peeling.
3. Without proper maintenance, food can quickly decay and become unsafe to eat.
4. The fallen leaves decayed on the forest floor, returning nutrients to the soil.
5. The neglected garden showed signs of decay, with wilted flowers and overgrown weeds.
6. Over time, untreated metal can decay and corrode, weakening its structure.

History and etymology of decay

The verb 'decay' has its etymological roots in the Middle English word 'decayen,' which was derived from the Old North French term 'decaeir' and ultimately from the Latin word 'decadere.' In Latin, 'decadere' is a combination of 'de' (meaning 'down from' or 'away from') and 'cadere' (meaning 'to fall'). Therefore, 'decay' originally meant to fall away or decline from a previous state. Over time, the term 'decay' came to describe the gradual process of deterioration or decomposition, often resulting in the loss of structure, functionality, or vitality over time. The etymology of 'decay' underscores its historical connection to the idea of falling away or declining, highlighting its role in describing natural processes where things break down or lose their integrity over the course of time.

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Further usage examples of decay

1. The fruit left out in the sun began to decay, attracting flies and producing a foul odor.
2. The once vibrant city neighborhood fell into decay, with abandoned buildings and crime increasing.
3. The scientist studied the decay of radioactive elements to understand their half-life.
4. Poor oral hygiene can lead to tooth decay and cavities.
5. The carved statue decayed over centuries, losing its intricate details.
6. The musician's fame began to decay as newer artists emerged on the scene.
7. The fallen tree in the forest gradually decayed, providing a habitat for insects and fungi.
8. The ancient manuscript was carefully preserved to prevent decay and deterioration.
9. The politician's reputation started to decay after allegations of corruption emerged.
10. The decaying smell of garbage filled the air as the waste sat uncollected for days.
11. The once thriving coral reef began to decay due to rising ocean temperatures.
12. The wooden beams in the abandoned house showed signs of decay, making it unsafe to enter.
13. The fallen leaves decayed on the forest floor, returning nutrients to the soil.
14. Neglect can cause a once vibrant garden to slowly decay.
15. Without maintenance, buildings can decay and become unsafe.
16. The old book's pages began to decay from moisture damage.
17. Over time, untreated wood will naturally decay.
18. Neglected relationships can decay, leading to estrangement.
19. Tooth decay is a common result of poor oral hygiene.
20. In the absence of care, memories can decay and fade.
21. Time can cause the colors of artwork to fade and decay.
22. Decaying infrastructure can lead to safety hazards.
23. Emotional wounds left untreated may fester and decay.
24. The once-thriving city center began to decay due to economic decline.