decomposition

American  

[dee-kom-puh-zish-uhn] / ˌdi kɒm pəˈzɪʃ ən /

noun

1. the act or process of decomposing.

2. the state of being decomposed; decomposed; decay.

---

decomposition Scientific  

/ 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.

3. See more at detritivore

---

Etymology

Origin of decomposition

1650–60; probably < French décomposition, derivative of décomposer to decompose; composition

Example Sentences

The researchers found the highest concentrations in the top layer of leaf litter, where decomposition has just begun.

From Science Daily • Mar. 23, 2026

"This hydrogen peroxide decomposition has been used to power large-scale rockets," says Erica Hastings, PhD, postdoctoral fellow in biochemistry in the SFESOM.

From Science Daily • Mar. 19, 2026

The decomposition of her body indicated that she had already been "deceased for several weeks", investigators have said.

From BBC • Feb. 26, 2026

Dr Shepherd said the condition of her body was "consistent with mummification" as the cold winter air coming in through the open window "effectively turned the room into a fridge" and slowed down decomposition.

From BBC • Feb. 21, 2026

But pathologists soon realized that too many variables—from the humidity in the air to the type of clothing on the corpse—affect the rate of decomposition to allow a precise calculation.

From "Killers of the Flower Moon" by David Grann

Related Words

• decay
• disintegration