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Synonyms

decomposed

American  
[dee-kuhm-pohzd] / ˌdi kəmˈpoʊzd /

adjective

  1. having undergone decomposition.

  2. (of a feather) having the barbs separate, hanging loosely, and not interconnected by barbules.


Other Word Forms


Etymology

Origin of decomposed

First recorded in 1840–50; decompose + -ed 2


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

He then sequenced the genetic material and carefully analyzed the extensive data to determine which microbes and genes became especially abundant as the bioplastics decomposed.

From Science Daily ● Oct. 16, 2026

"The smell is like decaying wood being burned – that's the characteristic smell of peat. And that peat contains decomposed wood and organic material from many different sources."

From BBC ● Sep. 6, 2026

The fires are difficult to extinguish because many occurred on peatlands, a wetland ecosystem with layers of partially decomposed organic materials that become flammable when dry.

From Barron's ● Sep. 5, 2026

The autopsy report said investigators used dental image comparisons to identify the body, which was severely decomposed.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 19, 2026

No matter what its original condition, the intense rain and heat of the forest have eroded its surface, washed out all its minerals, and decomposed vital organic compounds.

From "1491" by Charles C. Mann

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