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

Ms Bates said one body, of William Mitchell, 87, "showed obvious signs of decomposition" after remaining in the room for 36 days.

From BBC

"The cause of death could not be determined due to the state of decomposition of the bodies," Tersch said.

From BBC

Part of the research on the bones would also be to see whether the process of decomposition in the soil had cleaned them of any remaining tissue, he added.

From BBC

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

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

From BBC

Related Words

• decay
• disintegration