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rot

Q: How is the word 'rot' different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of rot are decay , decompose , putrefy , and spoil . While all these words mean "to undergo destructive dissolution," rot is a close synonym of decompose and often connotes foulness. // fruit was left to rot in warehouses

Q: Where would 'decay' be a reasonable alternative to 'rot'?

The words decay and rot are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, decay implies a slow change from a state of soundness or perfection. // a decaying mansion

Q: When can 'decompose' be used instead of 'rot'?

The words decompose and rot can be used in similar contexts, but decompose stresses a breaking down by chemical change and when applied to organic matter a corruption. // the strong odor of decomposing vegetation

Q: When would 'putrefy' be a good substitute for 'rot'?

While in some cases nearly identical to rot , putrefy implies the rotting of animal matter and offensiveness to sight and smell. // corpses putrefying on the battlefield

Q: In what contexts can 'spoil' take the place of 'rot'?

While the synonyms spoil and rot are close in meaning, spoil applies chiefly to the decomposition of foods. // keep the ham from spoiling

noun

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Synonyms & Antonyms of rot

(Entry 1 of 2)

1 language, behavior, or ideas that are absurd and contrary to good sense

I won't stand here and listen to such rot

Synonyms for rot

Words Related to rot

Near Antonyms for rot

2 the process by which dead organic matter separates into simpler substances

the rot begins shortly after the fish are killed

Synonyms for rot

Words Related to rot

Near Antonyms for rot

rot

verb

Synonyms & Antonyms of rot (Entry 2 of 2)

1 to become worse or of less value

the house slowly fell into disrepair and rotted

Synonyms for rot

Words Related to rot

sour,
spoil

Phrases Synonymous with rot

Near Antonyms for rot

Antonyms for rot

2 to go through decomposition

rotting vegetation on the bank of the river

Synonyms for rot

Words Related to rot

sour,
turn,
turn off
[British]

mortify

rust

Phrases Synonymous with rot

Near Antonyms for rot

Frequently Asked Questions About rot

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

Some common synonyms of rot are decay, decompose, putrefy, and spoil. While all these words mean "to undergo destructive dissolution," rot is a close synonym of decompose and often connotes foulness.

fruit was left to rot in warehouses

Where would decay be a reasonable alternative to rot?

The words decay and rot are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, decay implies a slow change from a state of soundness or perfection.

a decaying mansion

When can decompose be used instead of rot?

The words decompose and rot can be used in similar contexts, but decompose stresses a breaking down by chemical change and when applied to organic matter a corruption.

the strong odor of decomposing vegetation