decayed (B1)

adjective

Pronunciation: /dɪˈkeɪd/

Definition

Rotten or decomposed, especially by the action of bacteria or fungi.

Examples

• The smell of decayed leaves filled the damp forest air.

• His teeth had decayed from years of neglect and too much sugar.

• Archaeologists found the decayed remains of an ancient wooden ship.

How to Use decayed

decayed from (prepositional phrase)

To have decomposed or become corrupted due to a specific cause. — "The fruit had decayed from exposure to the heat."

decayed by (prepositional phrase)

To have decomposed or become corrupted as a result of an agent or process. — "The organic material was decayed by bacteria."

Synonyms of decayed

Words with a similar meaning to decayed:

• rotten
• decomposed
• putrid
• foul

Antonyms of decayed

Words with the opposite meaning to decayed:

• fresh
• preserved
• intact

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