rot
word
Definition
To rot means to decay slowly, especially in a natural way, like food, wood, or plants breaking down. As a noun, rot is the decayed, spoiled condition of something.
Usage & Nuances
Most often used for physical decay: food 'rots', wood 'rots', teeth can 'rot'. It can also be used figuratively for moral or social decay in formal contexts, as in 'corruption is causing the system to rot'. Common patterns include 'rot away', 'rot in prison', and 'root rot' in gardening.
Example Sentences
If you leave the fruit outside, it will rot quickly.
basic
Too much water can make the roots rot.
basic
The old wood began to rot in the rain.
basic
I forgot about the potatoes, and now they're rotting in the pantry.
natural
That fence is starting to rot away at the bottom.
natural
Some people say the whole system is rotting from the inside.
natural