decomposition

[dee-kom-puh-zish-uhn]

noun

1. the act or process of decomposing.

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

decomposition

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of decomposition¹

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

Example Sentences

County Medical Examiner’s Office responded to the scene but couldn’t determine the gender of the person due to the level of decomposition.

From Los Angeles Times

Mr Stephen's body was found in an advanced stage of decomposition.

From BBC

The three others were found in "a very advanced state of decomposition", they added.

From BBC

In the final ruling this week, the magistrate said that "due to the level of its decomposition" at the time of exhumation, it was too hard to say what had led to his death.

From BBC

When a human body falls into a glacier, the extreme cold freezes it fast, preventing decomposition, said Prof Muhammad Bilal, head of the Department of Environment at Comsats University Islamabad.

From BBC

Related Words

• decay 
• disintegration