# rotting

/ˈɹɑtɪŋ/ (US) · /ɹˈɒtɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/rotting
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. decaying

adjective · CEFR B2

decaying or breaking down naturally, usually with a bad smell.

For teachers: undergoing the process of organic decomposition; typically used to describe biological matter.

- The smell of rotting leaves filled the damp forest air in autumn.
- The investigators found the structure was unsafe due to rotting floorboards that had been exposed to moisture for decades.

### 2. the process of decay

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

the natural process of something breaking down and decaying.

For teachers: the biological or chemical process of decomposition.

- The rotting of the fruit happened quickly in the hot summer sun.
- The rapid rotting of organic waste in the landfill produces significant amounts of methane gas if not properly managed.

## Examples

- The smell of rotting fruit filled the kitchen.
- The old wooden fence was rotting at the base because of the damp soil.
- The forest floor was thick with rotting leaves, which slowly returned vital nutrients to the earth to support the growth of new saplings.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.