decay
verb (used without object)
to become decomposed; rot.
decayed
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.
Yet, despite this surge of security personnel, basic living conditions have only decayed.
From Slate ● Aug. 11, 2026
“Remote and hybrid work used to be a privilege, but its benefits over in-person work have decayed across the board,” Chris Martin, senior economist at Glassdoor, told MarketWatch.
From MarketWatch ● Jun. 27, 2026
Pyne added the tree would not immediately disappear, and as it decayed over the next few decades, would provide a home to many animals and plants.
From BBC ● Jun. 17, 2026
Teeth are the most durable part of the skeleton and often survive long after the rest of the body has decayed.
From Science Daily ● Jun. 8, 2026
Her skin was leathery, her teeth decayed, her hair faded and colorless, and her look frightened.
From "One Hundred Years of Solitude" by Gabriel Garcia Marquez
