Pronunciation
/dɪˈkeɪ/
Definitions
Noun
- Decay: 1. The process of becoming rotten, spoiled, or deteriorated. For example: “The ancient statue showed signs of decay from years of exposure to the elements.”
Verb
- To decay: To undergo the process of deterioration or decomposition. For example: “Wood naturally decays over time.”
- (Chemistry) To undergo radioactive decay.
Adjective
- Decaying: 1. In the process of decaying or decomposing. For example: “The decaying leaves created a soft, crunchy sound underfoot.”
Adverb
- Decayingly: In a manner that indicates decay or decline. For example: “The music decayingly faded into the distance.”
Phrases
- “Decay of infrastructure” refers to the deterioration of physical structures.
- “Environmental decay” denotes the worsening of environmental conditions.
- “Social decay” describes a decline in societal values or cohesion.
Example Sentences
- Noun: “The once-grand building was now a mere shadow of its former self, a symbol of architectural decay.”
- Verb: “The bacteria caused the food to decay rapidly.”
- Adjective: “The decaying walls of the abandoned house were a stark reminder of better times.”
- Adverb: “The decaying melody echoed through the empty hallways.”
Synonyms
- Deterioration
- Corrosion
- Degradation
- Rot
- Decline
- Fading
- Disintegration