decay

(noun, verb)

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.