decomposition

American  

[dee-kom-puh-zish-uhn] / ˌdi kɒm pəˈzɪʃ ən /

noun

1. the act or process of decomposing.

2. the state of being decomposed; decomposed; decay.

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decomposition Scientific  

/ dē-kŏm′pə-zĭsh′ən /

1. The separation of a substance into simpler substances or basic elements. Decomposition can be brought about by exposure to heat, light, or chemical or biological activity.

2. The process of breaking down organic material, such as dead plant or animal tissue, into smaller molecules that are available for use by the organisms of an ecosystem. Decomposition is carried on by bacteria, fungi, protists, worms, and certain other organisms.

3. See more at detritivore

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Etymology

Origin of decomposition

1650–60; probably < French décomposition, derivative of décomposer to decompose; composition

Example Sentences

There, detectives discovered the body of 87-year-old William Mitchell, which had been in the mortuary room for 36 days and showed "obvious signs of decomposition", the court heard.

From BBC

Some may be transformed into compounds that microbes can further break down, while others could become even more resistant to decomposition.

From Science Daily

After decades of mixing with the soil underneath and becoming enriched by animal and plant decomposition, the ash and mud were finally able to support large plants.

From Literature

Trevor Weeks, founding director of East Sussex Wildlife Rescue and Ambulance Service, said the primary risk would be to the water quality due to the decomposition of the potatoes.

From BBC

Slower colonization could delay carbon decomposition and reduce habitat formation for the many species that typically live inside Xylophaga burrows.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• decay
• disintegration