Putrescent Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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putrescent
[pjuหหtrษsษnt ]
Definition
decaying matter
Putrescent refers to something that is undergoing decomposition, especially organic matter that is rotting or in a state of decay. This term often describes the foul smell that accompanies the breakdown of dead organic material.
Synonyms
decayed, decomposing, putrid, rotting.
Examples of usage
- The putrescent remains of the animal emitted a terrible odor.
- The putrescent fruit attracted a swarm of flies.
- We found putrescent vegetation in the swamp.
- The putrescent garbage in the bin had to be disposed of immediately.
Translations
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Origin of 'putrescent'
The word 'putrescent' comes from the Latin word 'putrescens', which is the present participle of 'putrescere', meaning 'to rot' or 'to decay'. The roots of the term can be traced back to the Latin 'putris', meaning 'rotten' or 'decayed'. It has been used in the English language since the 15th century to describe the process and condition of decomposition, particularly in organic substances. The connotation of the word includes an implication of foulness and undesirable smells, linking it to the natural processes of decay that occur in once-living organisms. The term is often employed in scientific contexts, such as biology and ecology, to describe the state of matter that is breaking down due to microbial action.