decompose
Translation
to rot, to decay, to break down
Examples
The dead leaves slowly decompose on the forest floor.
The dead leaves slowly decompose on the forest floor.
Bacteria decompose organic waste into useful compost.
Bacteria decompose organic waste into useful compost.
Grammar Patterns
to rot or decay The dead leaves slowly decompose.
((sth.)) to break (sth.) down into simpler parts Bacteria decompose organic waste.
Similar Words
Synonyms: rot, decay, break down
Etymology
From the prefix 'de-' (undo, reverse) and 'compose' (to put together). It literally means to undo the composition, to break apart.
Memory Tips
Think of a composer putting music together. To 'de-compose' is the opposite: to take it apart, like organic matter breaking down.