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Putrefaction Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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putrefaction

[ˌpjuːtrɪˈfækʃən ]

Definitions

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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
putrefaction

Used mainly in a scientific or medical context to describe the process of rotting, especially organic matter producing a foul odor.

  • The putrefaction of the dead animal caused a terrible smell.
  • Putrefaction occurs when bacteria break down organic material.
decay

General term for the process of declining or rotting, applicable to both organic and inorganic matter. It can be used in everyday language.

  • Tooth decay is a common dental problem.
  • The old house showed signs of decay.
rot

Commonly used in everyday language to describe the degradation of organic matter, especially food or plants. Has a negative connotation.

  • The fruit will rot if left out for too long.
  • The wooden beams began to rot due to moisture.
decomposition

Often used in a scientific context to describe the breakdown of organic matter into simpler substances. Can be used more formally.

  • The decomposition of the plant material enriched the soil.
  • Scientists studied the decomposition process of the remains.

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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
putrefaction

Scientific or medical context to describe decay and decomposition of organic material, often has a negative connotation due to association with bad smell and health hazards.

  • The putrefaction process started soon after the animal died.
  • Efforts were made to prevent putrefaction in stored food supplies.
moral decay

Used to describe a decline in ethical standards and values, generally in a societal or cultural context.

  • The community was alarmed by the apparent moral decay among its youth.
  • Many authors write about the moral decay present in modern civilization.
corruption

Used to refer to dishonesty or fraudulent conduct by those in power, typically in a political or business context.

  • The mayor was arrested for corruption and embezzlement.
  • Many citizens are frustrated by the widespread corruption within the government.
degradation

Often used to describe a general decline in quality, condition, or status, including environmental or moral contexts.

  • The degradation of the land was evident after years of deforestation.
  • She was concerned about the degradation of moral values in society.

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

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • Putrefaction is a natural process where bacteria break down organic material, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.
  • In living organisms, this process can occur post-mortem, contributing to the ecological balance by returning matter to the soil.
  • Certain fungi play a critical role in this process by helping to decompose complex organic substances.

Cultural References

  • Putrefaction often appears in literature as a metaphor for moral decay or corruption.
  • In visual arts, decay represented through putrefaction can symbolize beauty in transience, as seen in still-life paintings that depict rotting fruit and flowers.

Environmental Science

  • Putrefaction contributes to soil health, enabling plants to obtain essential nutrients from decomposed materials.
  • Composting utilizes putrefactive processes, turning kitchen scraps into rich soil while reducing waste.

Origin of 'putrefaction'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'putrefactio', which means 'decay' or 'rotten'.
  • It is formed from 'putrefacere', combining 'putrere' (to rot) and 'facere' (to make), illustrating the change from something fresh to rotten.

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.