Rotting

ˈrɒt.ɪŋ

Meaning & Definition

verb

the process of decaying or decomposing due to the action of bacteria and fungi.

The fruit was left out too long and is now rotting on the kitchen counter.

to cause to decay or decompose.

If we don't remove the garbage regularly, it will start rotting and produce a foul smell.

to become gradually worse or deteriorate.

The old building has been rotting for years and is now a safety hazard.

adjective

describing something that is decayed or decomposing.

The rotting logs in the forest provide nutrients to the soil.

having an offensive smell or taste due to decay.

The rotting vegetables in the bin attracted flies.

from Old English 'rottian', meaning to decay.

rotting away

gradually deteriorating or declining in quality.

rotting meat

meat that has decayed and is no longer edible.

rotting wood

wood that has deteriorated due to decay, often caused by moisture.

decompose

to break down or decay into simpler components.

decay

the process of rotting or decomposing.

putrefaction

the process of decay or rotting in a body or other organic matter.

feeling very tired or unwell, as if one's energy is decomposing.

After that workout, I'm totally rotting.

when something is deteriorating in quality or standard.

The movie was so bad, it's just rotting.