decay

(noun) the process of gradually becoming inferior.

(noun) a gradual decrease; as of stored charge or current. Synonyms: decline.

(noun) the organic phenomenon of rotting. Synonyms: decomposition.

(noun) an inferior state resulting from the process of decaying. Examples: "The corpse was in an advanced state of decay." "The house had fallen into a serious state of decay and disrepair."

(noun) the spontaneous disintegration of a radioactive substance along with the emission of ionizing radiation. Synonyms: radioactive decay, disintegration.

(verb) lose a stored charge, magnetic flux, or current. Synonyms: disintegrate, decompose. Example: "The particles disintegrated during the nuclear fission process."

(verb) fall into decay or ruin. Synonyms: crumble, dilapidate. Example: "The unoccupied house started to decay."

(verb) undergo decay or decomposition. Example: "The body started to decay and needed to be cremated."