decay

intransitive-verb
UK: /dɪˈkeɪ/
US: /dɪˈkeɪ/

  1. To rot or decompose, breaking down into simpler substances.

    1. The old fruit will decay quickly if you leave it out too long.
    2. The building slowly started to decay after it was abandoned by its owners.

  2. To decline in health, strength, or vigor.

    1. His health started to decay after a long illness.
    2. The empire began to decay because of internal conflicts and corruption.

Synonyms

deterioration decompose rot spoilage decline
decay transitive-verb

  1. To cause to rot or decompose.

    1. Bacteria can decay food, making it unsafe to eat.
    2. The constant rain decayed the wooden fence over many years.
decay noun

  1. The process or result of rotting or decomposing.

    1. Tooth decay is a common problem in children.
    2. The decay of the leaves created a rich compost for the garden.

  2. A decline in health, strength, or vigor.

    1. The decay of the old city saddened the tourists.
    2. Urban decay led to increased crime and social problems in the neighborhood.

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "decay" in English means: To rot or decompose, breaking down into simpler substances., To decline in health, strength, or vigor..

The phonetic transcription of "decay" is /dɪˈkeɪ/ in British English and /dɪˈkeɪ/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "decay": deterioration, decompose, rot, spoilage, decline.

Example usage of "decay": "The old fruit will decay quickly if you leave it out too long.". More examples on the page.