decomposition

noun

as in decay
the process by which dead organic matter separates into simpler substances the unmistakable smell of decomposition led us to some fruit that had fallen behind the refrigerator

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of decomposition One key indicator of soil health is decomposition rates of complex organic matter, breaking down stuff like leaves, wood, even cadavers into simpler organic and inorganic compounds, releasing C02 and nutrients in the process. — Jennifer Ouellette, ArsTechnica, 27 Aug. 2026 This doesn’t mean that a region’s optimal underground environment is always one that facilitates rapid decomposition. — Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 26 Aug. 2026 Heat, sunlight exposure, monsoons, animals and others speed up decomposition, Hess says. — Emma Tucker, CNN Money, 24 Aug. 2026 At the molecular level, the ammonia formed from the decomposition of urea in the urine acts as the mordant. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 19 Aug. 2026 Erosion can move the straw, while decomposition gradually breaks it down. — Anthony Reardon, Kansas City Star, 19 Aug. 2026 According to the medical examiner's office, the bodies were improperly stored at the funeral home and were in various states of decomposition at the time. — Jeramie Bizzle, CBS News, 12 Aug. 2026 Warm weather can make odors worse and accelerate decomposition. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 10 Aug. 2026 Investigators and forensic pathologists who responded found remains in various states of decomposition. — Michael Sinkewicz, FOXNews.com, 8 Aug. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for decomposition
  1. decay
  2. fermentation
  3. putrefaction
Noun
  • In a total power blackout, the plant removes residual decay heat through natural convection rather than emergency electrical pumps or operator intervention.
    — Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 26 Aug. 2026
  • Waytowich said crime is a symptom of much deeper problems on the north side of Jacksonville, from neighborhood decay to generational trauma and lack of job opportunities.
    — Yona Gavino, Miami Herald, 25 Aug. 2026
Definition of decay
Noun
  • An essential stop on my fermentation pilgrimage, while not part of the official trail, was the quiet izakaya at Hakko House Nagaoka, a two-room accommodation.
    — Adam H. Graham, Condé Nast Traveler, 24 Aug. 2026
  • Whole-grain sourdough is a strong second, as fermentation may improve digestibility and support a healthy blood sugar response.
    — Staff Author, HEALTH, 20 Aug. 2026
Definition of fermentation
Noun
  • Now guys, be sure to say thank you to the man responsible for the pool’s putrefaction and the rest of the surrounding devastation.
    — Voice of the People, New York Daily News, 26 June 2026
  • Nikolai Gogol’s will specified that his corpse must show visible signs of putrefaction before burial.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 8 Oct. 2025
Definition of putrefaction

Browse Nearby Words

decomposing
decomposition
decompress
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Cite this Entry

“Decomposition.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/decomposition. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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