decay, decompose, rot, putrefy, spoil mean to undergo destructive dissolution. decay implies a slow change from a state of soundness or perfection.

Look up decay in Wiktionary, the free dictionary.

The bacteria live on food particles and produce acid that decays the enamel on your teeth. The flesh on a dead body decays very rapidly. It's sad to watch a beautiful rose wither and decay in such a short …

Decay has wide application but often suggests partial deterioration short of complete destruction: "A decaying dam is an accident waiting to happen" (George Black).

Feb 23, 2026 · decay (third-person singular simple present decays, present participle decaying, simple past and past participle decayed) (intransitive) To deteriorate, to get worse, to lose strength or …

Definition of decay noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Some species rapidly change colour, and cause the decay of any others with which they come in contact. From this time forward the city began to decay. Though rebuilt, the building fell into decay …

Decay, decompose, disintegrate, rot imply a deterioration or falling away from a sound condition. Decay implies either entire or partial deterioration by progressive natural changes: Teeth decay.

Decay refers to the process of gradual degradation, breakdown, or destruction of an object, substance, or system. This term can be used in various contexts such as biology, physics, and even societal …

To decay means to rot, decompose, break down. Our bodies—anything organic—will decay after death. Broken sidewalks, potholes, graffiti are all signs of urban decay. Tooth decay is something to avoid. …