decaying
word · lemma: decay
Definition
Gradually breaking down or rotting due to natural processes, often because of age or lack of care; commonly used for plants, food, or even buildings.
Usage & Nuances
Often used for organic matter like leaves, fruit, or wood, but also metaphorically for buildings or societies. More descriptive and formal than saying something is just 'rotten'.
Spanish: en descomposición - podridoPortuguese (BR): em decomposição - apodrecendoPortuguese (PT): em decomposição - a apodrecerChinese (Simplified): 腐烂的 - 腐朽的Chinese (Traditional): 腐爛的 - 腐朽的Hindi: सड़ता हुआArabic: يتحلل - متعفن
Example Sentences
The decaying leaves covered the ground in autumn.
basic
There was a decaying apple in the kitchen.
basic
The abandoned house was full of decaying wood.
basic
The smell of decaying food made it clear nobody had cleaned the fridge for weeks.
natural
You could hear the creak of decaying floorboards with every step.
natural
Many say the decaying city needs new life and investment.
natural