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.”
• 2. A decline or worsening in quality, health, or value over time. For example: “The economy is showing signs of financial decay.”
• 3. (Chemistry) The breakdown of a substance into simpler substances through chemical reactions. For example: “Radioactive materials undergo radioactive decay.”

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.”
• 2. Showing signs of decline or corruption. For example: “The once-thriving city is now a decaying neighborhood.”

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