Synonyms for
Decay
Definition
Decay means to rot or decompose over time.
Synonyms & similar words
Synonyms by register
Informal
Literary
Antonyms
Common collocations
- tooth decay
- nuclear decay
- radioactive decay
- organic decay
- decay rate
- decay process
- decay product
Word family
Usage note
Primarily used to describe the process of rotting or breaking down, often in a biological or physical context. Can also refer to a decline in strength or quality.
Example sentences
- The leaves on the ground are beginning to decay.
- If you leave food out too long, it will start to decay.
- The old house was decaying and falling apart.
- The wooden fence is decaying from exposure to the elements.
- The fruit in the basket will begin to decay if it is not eaten.
Quotes
'All that is gold does not glitter, Not all those who wander are lost; The old that is strong does not wither, Deep roots are not reached by the frost. From the ashes, a fire shall be woken, A light from the shadows shall spring; Renewed shall be blade that was broken, The crownless again shall be king.' - J.R.R. Tolkien
'We are all in a process of decay, every breath that we take is a process of decay. But we must live every day like it's the last.' - Jack LaLanne
'The universe is in a constant state of creation, destruction and decay.' - John Polkinghorne