decay
noun
1. the process of gradually becoming inferior
Definition categories: process, action, activity
2. a gradual decrease; as of stored charge or current
Similar word(s): decline
Definition categories: process, decrease, decrement
3. the organic phenomenon of rotting
Similar word(s): decomposition
Definition categories: phenomenon
4. an inferior state resulting from the process of decaying
- the corpse was in an advanced state of decay
- the house had fallen into a serious state of decay and disrepair
Definition categories: state, unsoundness
5. the spontaneous disintegration of a radioactive substance along with the emission of ionizing radiation
Similar word(s): disintegration
Definition categories: process
verb
1. lose a stored charge, magnetic flux, or current
Similar word(s): decompose, disintegrate
Definition categories: change
2. fall into decay or ruin
- The unoccupied house started to decay
Similar word(s): crumble, dilapidate
Definition categories: change
3. undergo decay or decomposition
- The body started to decay and needed to be cremated
Definition categories: change
Sentences with decay as a verb:
- The pair loved to take pictures in the decaying hospital on forty-third street.
- The cat's body decayed rapidly.
- The extreme humidity decayed the wooden sculptures in the museum's collection in a matter of years.