decomposition

[dee-kom-puh-zish-uh n] /ˌdi kɒm pəˈzɪʃ ən/
noun
1.
the act or process of decomposing.
2.
the state of being decomposed; decay.
Origin
1650-60; probably < French décomposition, derivative of décomposer to decompose; see composition
Examples from the web for decomposition
  • Resnik, said the agency believed that some of the bodies could be identified despite decomposition.
  • If you don't, they'll become too woody for fast decomposition.
  • Amber, fossilized resin from tree sap, protects trapped materials from decay and bacterial decomposition.
  • Compost requires a few basic ingredients and conditions for decomposition to occur.
  • Rotting, or fermentation, means bacterial action on food resulting in decomposition.
  • The maggots fed off the bacteria on the flesh aiding in faster decomposition.
  • After the plants die they drift to the bottom and their decomposition sucks the oxygen out of the seawater.
  • decomposition breaks down dangerous pathogens and reduces the stench.
  • Too much moisture will create mold and too little moisture will halt the decomposition process.
  • Certain in-vessel composting allows for the decomposition of meat, dairy and foods cooked in oil.
Word Origin and History for decomposition
n.

1762, from de- + composition. An earlier word in the same form meant "further compounding of already composite things" (1650s).

decomposition in Medicine

decomposition de·com·po·si·tion (dē-kŏm'pə-zĭsh'ən)
n.

  1. The act or result of decomposing; disintegration.

  2. Separation into constituents by chemical reaction.

  3. The breakdown or decay of organic materials; lysis.

de·com'po·si'tion·al adj.
decomposition in Science
decomposition
  (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. See more at detritivore.