Word
decomposition
Phoneticsde·com·po·si·tion, stress on the fourth syllable
US/ˌdikəmpəˈzɪʃən/
UK/dˌiːkɒmpəzˈɪʃən/
Uncountable noun Biology
Definition
n. the natural process of dead plants or animals breaking down and rotting. It is how nature recycles nutrients back into the soil.
n. the biological and chemical process by which organic substances are broken down into simpler matter. Often involves the action of bacteria or fungi and is essential for nutrient cycling in ecosystems.
Examples
“The decomposition of leaves provides nutrients for the forest floor.”
“Scientists studied the rate of decomposition in the swamp to understand how carbon is stored in the mud.”
“In forensic science, the specific stages of decomposition can provide investigators with a reliable timeline for estimating the interval since a biological organism ceased to function.”
Examples
simple
“The decomposition of leaves provides nutrients for the forest floor.”
contextual
“Scientists studied the rate of decomposition in the swamp to understand how carbon is stored in the mud.”
complex
“In forensic science, the specific stages of decomposition can provide investigators with a reliable timeline for estimating the interval since a biological organism ceased to function.”
Usage
Primarily uncountable when referring to the general process; can be countable in technical contexts referring to specific chemical breakdowns.
Real-World Examples
“Study: Land use is the biggest factor in determining decomposition rates of organic cotton underpants.” “When their blooms die, their decomposition depletes oxygen in the water, creating so-called dead zones.” Etymology
From de- + composition.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
NOUN
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/decomposition