Decomposing - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Decomposing means breaking down into smaller parts or decaying, especially in reference to organic matter like plants or animals. It is a natural process driven by bacteria and fungi.
Definition:
Breaking down organic matter into simpler substances through decay or rot.
Synonyms:
decaying, rotting, disintegrating, breaking down
Part of Speech:
verb, adjective
Antonyms:
composing, building up
Common Collocations:
decomposing leaves, decomposing organic matter, decomposing bacteria
Derivatives:
decompose, decomposition, decomposer
Usage Tips:
Use "decomposing" to describe organic material breaking down naturally over time.
Common Phrases:
left to decompose, slowly decomposing, nature's way of decomposing
Etymology:
From Latin "de-" (down) + "componere" (to put together), meaning to break apart.
Examples:
- 1. The leaves are decomposing on the forest floor.
- 2. We found a decomposing log teeming with insects.
- 3. The smell came from decomposing food in the trash.
- 4. Bacteria help speed up the decomposing process in compost piles.