decay meaning and definition

DECAY noun

Definition of decay (noun)

1. the process of gradually becoming inferior
2. a gradual decrease; as of stored charge or current
   • synonyms: decline
3. the organic phenomenon of rotting
   • synonyms: decomposition
4. an inferior state resulting from the process of decaying
   • "the corpse was in an advanced state of decay"; "the house had fallen into a serious state of decay and disrepair"
5. the spontaneous disintegration of a radioactive substance along with the emission of ionizing radiation
   • synonyms: disintegration, radioactive decay

DECAY verb

Definition of decay (verb)

1. lose a stored charge, magnetic flux, or current
   • "the particles disintegrated during the nuclear fission process"
   • synonyms: decompose, disintegrate
2. fall into decay or ruin
   • "The unoccupied house started to decay"
   • synonyms: crumble, dilapidate
3. undergo decay or decomposition
   • "The body started to decay and needed to be cremated"