decay
word
Definition
Decay means the slow destruction or breakdown of something, like the rotting of food, or the gradual worsening of something such as a building, society, or health.
Usage & Nuances
Usually used for physical processes (food, teeth, plants rotting) or for gradual negative change (moral, social, structural). Can be both noun and verb. Common collocations: 'tooth decay', 'moral decay', 'signs of decay'. Not used for things that break suddenly.
Example Sentences
If you leave fruit out, it will start to decay.
basic
Tooth decay is caused by eating too much sugar.
basic
The old house fell into decay over the years.
basic
After the storm, you could smell the decay of fallen trees everywhere.
natural
Some people worry about the decay of traditional values in modern society.
natural
Without regular cleaning, food will quickly decay in the fridge.
natural