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Putrefaction: meaning, definitions and examples

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putrefaction

 

[ ˌpjuːtrɪˈfækʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

biological process

The process of decay or rotting in a body or other organic matter, typically accompanied by a foul smell, caused by the action of bacteria and fungi.

Synonyms

decay, decomposition, rot

Examples of usage

  • The putrefaction of the organic matter in the compost heap attracted a swarm of flies.
  • The putrefaction of the fish left out in the sun was unbearable.
  • The smell of putrefaction filled the air in the abandoned building.
Context #2 | Noun

moral decay

The state of being morally corrupt or decadent, characterized by a decline in ethical standards and values.

Synonyms

corruption, degradation, moral decay

Examples of usage

  • The putrefaction of society's moral values was evident in the widespread corruption.
  • The politician's actions were a clear sign of the putrefaction of integrity in the government.
  • The company's culture was slowly succumbing to putrefaction, leading to unethical practices.

Translations

Translations of the word "putrefaction" in other languages:

🇵🇹 putrefação

🇮🇳 सड़न

🇩🇪 Fäulnis

🇮🇩 pembusukan

🇺🇦 гниття

🇵🇱 gnicie

🇯🇵 腐敗 (ふはい)

🇫🇷 putréfaction

🇪🇸 putrefacción

🇹🇷 çürüme

🇰🇷 부패

🇸🇦 تعفن

🇨🇿 hniloba

🇸🇰 hnitie

🇨🇳 腐烂 (fǔlàn)

🇸🇮 gnitje

🇮🇸 rotnun

🇰🇿 шіріген

🇬🇪 დაბერება

🇦🇿 çürümə

🇲🇽 putrefacción

Etymology

The word 'putrefaction' originated from the Latin word 'putrefacere', which means 'to make rotten'. It has been used in English since the 15th century to describe the process of decay in organic matter. Putrefaction plays a crucial role in the natural decomposition of dead organisms, returning nutrients to the ecosystem. Metaphorically, the term is also used to describe moral decay and corruption in society, reflecting a decline in ethical standards.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,493, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.