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putrefy

verb

/ˈpyu trəˌfaɪ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of putrefy

To decay or decompose, especially in organic matter, resulting in the release of foul odors and the breakdown of tissue.
"The fruit began to putrefy once the mold took hold."

Detailed meaning of putrefy

When something putrefies, it undergoes a chemical transformation caused by the activity of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms that break down the organic material. This decomposition process often occurs when the normal processes of life cease, leading to the breakdown of proteins and the production of gases like ammonia and hydrogen sulfide. Putrefaction is commonly associated with the rotting of organic substances such as food, animal carcasses, or plant matter. The putrefying process is characterized by the discoloration, softening, and eventual disintegration of the material as it undergoes this natural decomposition. The word "putrefy" conveys the unpleasant and malodorous nature of this decomposition process, often evoking a sense of decay and deterioration.

Example sentences containing putrefy

1. It didn't take long for the dead animal to putrefy and emit a foul odor.
2. The rotting fruit began to putrefy in the hot sun.
3. The stagnant water caused the organic matter to putrefy and create a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
4. The garbage left out in the summer heat started to putrefy and attract flies.
5. The neglected food in the fridge began to putrefy, creating a nauseating smell.
6. The corpse left unattended for days started to putrefy, making it difficult for investigators to identify the cause of death.

History and etymology of putrefy

The verb 'putrefy' can be traced back to the Latin word 'putrefacere,' which is a combination of 'putris,' meaning 'rotten' or 'decayed,' and 'facere,' meaning 'to make' or 'to do.' Essentially, 'putrefy' means 'to make rotten' or 'to cause decay.' This term reflects the natural process of decomposition, especially in organic matter, where microorganisms break down tissue and other substances, resulting in the release of foul odors and the transformation of once-vital material into decayed matter. The etymology of 'putrefy' emphasizes the fundamental concept of decay and the transformation of organic material into a state of decomposition, highlighting the role of microbial action in this natural process.

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Further usage examples of putrefy

1. The forgotten leftovers in the container began to putrefy, filling the kitchen with an unpleasant stench.
2. The decaying vegetation in the forest started to putrefy, enriching the soil with nutrients.
3. The untreated wound started to putrefy, causing severe infection.
4. The discarded organic waste left to rot in the compost pile began to putrefy, eventually turning into nutrient-rich soil.
5. The dead fish left on the riverbank started to putrefy, attracting scavenging birds.
6. The garbage dumped in the landfill began to putrefy, releasing toxic gases into the air.
7. The abandoned building's damp walls caused the wood to putrefy and decay.
8. The neglected meat in the refrigerator began to putrefy, emitting a repugnant smell throughout the kitchen.
9. The untreated sewage started to putrefy, posing a health hazard to nearby residents.
10. The stagnant pond allowed algae and other organic matter to putrefy, creating an unsightly green film on the surface.
11. The decomposing animal carcass began to putrefy, attracting carrion-eating insects and animals.
12. The unattended pile of leaves started to putrefy, producing a strong, musty odor.
13. The unsealed jar of food in the pantry began to putrefy, ruining its contents and emitting a rancid smell.
14. The forgotten vegetables in the refrigerator drawer started to putrefy, turning into a slimy, foul-smelling mess.