decomposed

[dee-kuhm-pohzd]

adjective

1. having undergone decomposition.

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

Other Word Forms

• undecomposed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of decomposed¹

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

Example Sentences

Her body was described by authorities as being decomposed, suggesting she had been dead for a while.

From Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles police officials have described her body as severely decomposed, suggesting she died while she was still 14.

From Los Angeles Times

Her severely decomposed body was found in a vehicle at Hollywood Tow on Sept. 8 after it was impounded.

From Los Angeles Times

The girl’s severely decomposed body was found in the vehicle at Hollywood Tow on Sept. 8 after it was impounded, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.

From Los Angeles Times

“The decedent was found severely decomposed inside a vehicle,” reads a statement from the medical examiner’s office.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• corrupt 
• disgusting 
• moldy 
• noxious 
• overripe 
• putrid 
• rancid 
• rotting www.thesaurus.com
• sour 
• spoiled 
• stale