Synonym Chooser

How is the word decompose different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of decompose are decay, putrefy, rot, and spoil. While all these words mean "to undergo destructive dissolution," decompose stresses a breaking down by chemical change and when applied to organic matter a corruption.

the strong odor of decomposing vegetation

Where would decay be a reasonable alternative to decompose?

The words decay and decompose are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, decay implies a slow change from a state of soundness or perfection.

a decaying mansion

In what contexts can putrefy take the place of decompose?

In some situations, the words putrefy and decompose are roughly equivalent. However, putrefy implies the rotting of animal matter and offensiveness to sight and smell.

corpses putrefying on the battlefield

How do rot and decompose relate to one another?

Rot is a close synonym of decompose and often connotes foulness.

fruit was left to rot in warehouses

When is spoil a more appropriate choice than decompose?

The synonyms spoil and decompose are sometimes interchangeable, but spoil applies chiefly to the decomposition of foods.

keep the ham from spoiling

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of decompose Fruit flies are attracted to the smell of ripening fruit and decomposing produce. Christine Fiorentino, Southern Living, 8 July 2025 But be aware that your yard may stink from the decomposing bugs. Chad Murphy, The Enquirer, 2 July 2025 How long does cardboard take to decompose in the garden? Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 June 2025 The decomposing roots serve as the host for the mushrooms to grow. Chris McKeown, The Enquirer, 2 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for decompose
Recent Examples of Synonyms for decompose
Verb
  • After that group disintegrated, the pair linked up with the guitarist and drummer of another band, Mythology — Iommi and Bill Ward — in late 1968 and formed a sextet called the Polka Tulk Blues Band.
    Kory Grow, Rolling Stone, 22 July 2025
  • Substantial, but not so much so that the bun will disintegrate from rivers of juice.
    Li Goldstein, Bon Appetit Magazine, 14 July 2025
Verb
  • However, when viruses were exposed to sunlight, many of them did not survive as long, decaying in under 24 hours.
    Jack Knudson, Discover Magazine, 13 Mar. 2025
  • The result was not only environmental catastrophe but license for unchecked consumption of cheap plastic goods that can take a few minutes to use but hundreds of years to decay.
    Scott W. Stern, The Atlantic, 10 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Food waste after a party or outdoor snacking session can begin to rot and smell, which won’t be pleasant for you or your neighbors.
    Hallie Milstein, Southern Living, 14 July 2025
  • This vertical trellis reduces the likelihood of rotting, keeps produce away from certain garden pests, and can even increase sun exposure.
    Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Decompose.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/decompose. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on decompose

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