Decay meaning

What does “decay” mean? Definitions, examples, synonyms and opposites.

“decay” is a noun and verb with 8 meanings. Its most common meaning is: the process of gradually becoming inferior.

decay

the process of gradually becoming inferior
a gradual decrease; as of stored charge or current
Synonymsdecline
the organic phenomenon of rotting
Synonymsdecomposition
an inferior state resulting from the process of decaying
“the corpse was in an advanced state of decay”
“the house had fallen into a serious state of decay and disrepair”
the spontaneous disintegration of a radioactive substance along with the emission of ionizing radiation
Synonymsradioactive decay disintegration

lose a stored charge, magnetic flux, or current
“the particles disintegrated during the nuclear fission process”
Synonymsdisintegrate decompose
fall into decay or ruin
“The unoccupied house started to decay”
Synonymscrumble dilapidate
undergo decay or decomposition
“The body started to decay and needed to be cremated”

Source: WordNet 3.1, Princeton University