Rottenness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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rottenness

[ˈrɒt(ə)nnəs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

state of being rotten

Rottenness refers to the condition of being decayed, spoiled, or putrid. It is the state of decomposition or decay, usually due to the action of bacteria, fungi, or other organisms breaking down organic matter.

Synonyms

decay, putridity, spoiledness.

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Word Description / Examples
rottenness

This word is often used to describe something that is spoiling or has spoiled completely. It can be used literally for food or metaphorically for moral corruption or decline.

  • The rottenness of the fruit was evident from the foul smell.
  • The rottenness in the government was too deep to fix.
decay

Decay refers to the process of deterioration, primarily related to organic matter, but it can also be used metaphorically for decline or deterioration in moral, social, or economic contexts.

  • The old house showed signs of decay, with peeling paint and broken windows.
  • The decay of traditional values worries many people.
spoiledness

Spoiledness describes the condition of food or another perishable item that has gone bad. It is less commonly used and more casual compared to the other options.

  • You could tell from the spoiledness of the milk that it was left out too long.
  • She was disgusted by the spoiledness of the leftovers.
putridity

Putridity is used to describe something that is decomposing and emitting a strong, unpleasant odor. It is often used in scientific or descriptive writing and has a highly negative connotation.

  • The putridity of the animal carcass was overwhelming.
  • They had to leave the room due to the putridity emanating from the trash.

Examples of usage

  • The rottenness of the fruit was evident from the foul smell emanating from it.
  • The house had been abandoned for years, and the rottenness of the wood was apparent.
  • The rottenness of the meat made it unsafe for consumption.

Translations

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

Origin of 'rottenness'

The word 'rottenness' originated from the Middle English 'rot', meaning to decay, and the suffix '-ness', which is used to form abstract nouns expressing a state or condition. The concept of decay and decomposition has been present in human language for centuries, reflecting the natural process of organic matter breaking down over time.


See also: rot, rotate, roti, rotor, rotten, rotting, rotund.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,547 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.