Meaning & Definition of word "Decay"
to
Decay
/dɪˈkeɪ/
noun:
- 1. The process of decomposing or rotting.
- Example: The decay of organic matter enriches the soil.
- 2. A decline in quality, quantity, or strength.
- Example: The decay of the old building was evident as the walls crumbled.
- 3. The gradual reduction in the number of radioactive atoms in a sample.
- Example: Radioactive decay is measured in half-lives.
verb:
- 1. To decompose or rot.
- Example: The leaves will decay over the winter months.
- 2. To decline in quality, quantity, or strength.
- Example: The town began to decay after the factory closed.
Etymology
Middle English: from Old French decaïr, from de- ‘down’ + cair ‘to fall’.
Common Phrases and Expressions
to decay away:
to gradually diminish or disappear.
natural decay:
the process by which organic matter breaks down naturally.
cultural decay:
the decline of cultural norms or standards in a society.
Related Words
decomposition:
The process of breaking down organic matter.
decline:
A gradual and continuous loss of strength, value, or quality.
deterioration:
The process of becoming progressively worse.
Slang Meanings of decay
Meaning: To fall apart or go badly.
Example Sentence: That project is decaying fast.
Meaning: To be in a state of ruin or neglect.
Example Sentence: The old mall is just decaying now, nobody goes there.