Rot

/rɒt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

the process of decay or decomposition.

The smell of rot filled the air from the compost pile.

a state of decay or deterioration.

The rot on the forgotten food made it inedible.

verb

to decay or decompose through the action of bacteria or fungi.

The fruit left out in the sun began to rot.

to become damaged or deteriorated.

The old wooden beams in the house started to rot over time.

to undergo a gradual decline or deterioration.

The company's profits began to rot after the scandal.

Middle English, from Old English 'rot(ian)', meaning 'to rot or decay'.

rot one's brain

To waste time on unproductive activities.

rot in hell

A phrase expressing disdain or wishing ill upon someone.

a rotten deal

An unfair or unfavorable agreement.

decay

The process of rotting or decomposing.

decompose

To break down into simpler parts.

putrefy

To undergo decay, especially with a foul odor.

To be in bad condition or state.

That car is just rotting away in the driveway.

To fail to progress or improve.

I feel like my career is just rotting.