decay 1 of 2

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as in decomposition
the process by which dead organic matter separates into simpler substances the cycle by which the decay of dead plants on the forest floor provides soil and nutrients for the next generation of plants

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

decay

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verb

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word decay different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of decay are decompose, putrefy, rot, and spoil. While all these words mean "to undergo destructive dissolution," decay implies a slow change from a state of soundness or perfection.

a decaying mansion

Where would decompose be a reasonable alternative to decay?

While the synonyms decompose and decay are close in meaning, decompose stresses a breaking down by chemical change and when applied to organic matter a corruption.

the strong odor of decomposing vegetation

In what contexts can putrefy take the place of decay?

In some situations, the words putrefy and decay are roughly equivalent. However, putrefy implies the rotting of animal matter and offensiveness to sight and smell.

corpses putrefying on the battlefield

How are the words rot and decompose related as synonyms of decay?

Rot is a close synonym of decompose and often connotes foulness.

fruit was left to rot in warehouses

When is spoil a more appropriate choice than decay?

The meanings of spoil and decay largely overlap; however, spoil applies chiefly to the decomposition of foods.

keep the ham from spoiling

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of decay
Noun
American literacy is also declining alongside the decay of humanities funding, and that’s been going on since the Regan Era. Literary Hub, 7 Oct. 2025 Sealing the holes also helps prevent moisture intrusion and wood decay. Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 6 Oct. 2025
Verb
If left standing, decaying leaves can attract rodents, like voles, by providing a cozy winter home. Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Oct. 2025 His body has barely decayed, and his hair and teeth are still intact. Raquel Reichard, Refinery29, 24 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for decay
Recent Examples of Synonyms for decay
Noun
  • Americans have this year grappled with elevated inflation, as well as a deterioration of the job market and a broader weakening of the nation’s economic outlook.
    Hugh Cameron, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Oct. 2025
  • The median age of survival since 1970 is 29 years and, while there is no cure and physical deterioration is inevitable, advancements in care have lengthened life expectancy.
    Jacob Tanswell, New York Times, 8 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Eventually, the natural fungal spores will colonize, and decomposition will begin.
    Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 4 Oct. 2025
  • After extinguishing the fire, officials found Robert Hill, 44, deceased with severe burns, apparent head trauma, and signs of decomposition, according to Melesa Johnson with the Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office.
    Noelle Alviz-Gransee, Kansas City Star, 29 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Letting the soil dry out some between waterings keeps the roots from rotting in excess moisture.
    Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 12 Oct. 2025
  • The program culture began to rot, the Aggies couldn't win on the road and often underwhelmed in big games.
    Sam Khan Jr, New York Times, 12 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Run defense by the safety opposite Minkah Fitzpatrick also has deteriorated.
    Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 9 Oct. 2025
  • The plan has seen rapid growth in recent years as California’s insurance market has deteriorated, with companies pulling back business in the state due to rising risks from climate change, losses caused by major wildfires and other factors.
    Stephen Hobbs, Sacbee.com, 9 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • That legacy hasn’t faded, but the region feels freshly alive these days as chefs, artists, and creative entrepreneurs put down roots.
    Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 11 Oct. 2025
  • With spring bloomers like azaleas, wait to prune later in spring after the flowers have faded.
    Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 11 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Despite its weakening power, heavy rain associated with the storm has already stretched as far north as the Desert Southwest.
    Anna Skinner, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 Oct. 2025
  • While most of the central bank’s policymakers still see inflation as a bigger threat than the jobs market — whose weakening may be more driven by slower immigration than corporate gloominess — there’s little consensus on the path forward, according to the September minutes released Wednesday.
    Liz Hoffman, semafor.com, 9 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Mushrooms also thrive in decomposing wood mulch.
    Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 5 Oct. 2025
  • These clippings decompose rapidly, enhancing soil quality and providing nutrients for your turf grass.
    Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • The Murdaughs' facade of prosperity, love and happiness all starts to crumble after Paul crashes that boat.
    Kelly Lawler, USA Today, 13 Oct. 2025
  • Yet after three easy wins during a light nonconference schedule, the Nittany Lions crumbled.
    Travis Johnson, Denver Post, 12 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Decay.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/decay. Accessed 15 Oct. 2025.

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