decay 1 of 2

1
2
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

2 of 2

verb

1
2
3

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
Studies have shown that this level can reduce tooth decay and minimize the risks of ingesting too much fluoride. Julie Scott, Verywell Health, 28 June 2025 When untreated tooth decay turns into an infection, antibiotics are often the only option. Samantha Korn, Sun Sentinel, 24 June 2025
Verb
All of this allows Lithgow and Rush to take this decaying senior rivalry to the heights, even veering into campiness as Lithgow stages a musical performance of a children’s song with Jenny as his partner. Pete Hammond, Deadline, 6 Mar. 2025 Each probe is powered by three radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs) fueled by decaying plutonium-238. Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 5 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for decay
Recent Examples of Synonyms for decay
Noun
  • With deterioration continuing, a 2014 study recommended the entire span be replaced.
    Carolyn Stein, Chicago Tribune, 8 July 2025
  • Corrosion is one of the leading causes of conventional RC infrastructure deterioration, often requiring extensive repairs and maintenance.
    Carol Cain, Freep.com, 3 July 2025
Verb
  • Food waste after a party or outdoor snacking session can begin to rot and smell, which won’t be pleasant for you or your neighbors.
    Hallie Milstein, Southern Living, 14 July 2025
  • This vertical trellis reduces the likelihood of rotting, keeps produce away from certain garden pests, and can even increase sun exposure.
    Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 July 2025
Verb
  • The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a flash flood emergency for Ruidoso on Tuesday, warning of rapidly deteriorating conditions and rising river levels that threatened homes and businesses.
    Martha McHardy, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 July 2025
  • The latest example of trouble resulting from this definitional confusion comes from the deteriorating relationship between Microsoft and OpenAI.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 8 July 2025
Verb
  • The celestial trio will remain close to each other throughout the night, with Saturn and Neptune eventually fading from sight in the southern sky when the sun rises on July 16.
    Anthony Wood, Space.com, 15 July 2025
  • The brand recommends avoiding dabbing or blotting after applying the spray, as this can cause the fragrance to break down and fade.
    Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 15 July 2025
Verb
  • The decomposing roots serve as the host for the mushrooms to grow.
    Chris McKeown, The Enquirer, 2 July 2025
  • The metamorphic rock from which Atlanta’s soil is derived also contributes to its alkalinity as does the constantly decomposing organic matter, consisting mostly of leaves, on the soil surface.
    Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 28 June 2025
Verb
  • Unfortunately, countless family businesses crumble—not for financial reasons, but because of missteps in preparation.
    Anatoly Iofe, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025
  • But Paxton's sizeable lead could crumble in light of his divorce proceedings.
    Martha McHardy, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 July 2025
Verb
  • The first-quarter boom in U.S. trade is weakening, with merchandise trade somewhat atypically declining for the second straight month, according to my analysis of the the most recent U.S. Census Bureau data.
    Ken Roberts, Forbes.com, 9 July 2025
  • The June jobs report showed strong headline numbers, but the underlying data pointed to a weakening labor market.
    Danny Bakst, Fortune, 9 July 2025
Verb
  • Organic materials like wood, leather, and fabric — which often remain remarkably preserved in the cold, low-oxygen depths — can begin to warp, crumble or disintegrate as dormant bacteria and fungi reactivate.
    Jordan Runtagh, People.com, 6 July 2025
  • Researchers think the deceased was buried in a wooden coffin that has long since disintegrated.
    Sonja Anderson, Smithsonian Magazine, 3 July 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Decay.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/decay. Accessed 23 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on decay

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!