Decayed

/dɪˈkeɪd/

Meaning & Definition

verb

past tense of decay, meaning to undergo decomposition or decline.

The fruit had decayed after being left out for several days.

adjective

having decomposed or rotted, often due to the action of bacteria or fungi.

The decayed leaves on the forest floor provided rich nutrients to the soil.

lacking vitality or vigor; deteriorated.

The decayed structure of the old house made it unsafe to enter.

Derived from Middle English 'decayen', from Old French 'decaïr', from Latin 'decadere', meaning 'to fall down.'

decayed teeth

Teeth that have rotted due to lack of care.

decayed remains

Remain of something that has decomposed.

a decayed system

A system that has deteriorated and is no longer functioning effectively.

decay

The process of rotting or decomposition.

decompose

To break down into simpler components.

deteriorate

To make or become worse.

degradation

The process of something being made worse or damaged.

In poor condition.

That old car is totally decayed, it's barely running.

Outdated or obsolete.

His style is so decayed, no one dresses like that anymore.