Decomposed

/ˌdiːkəmˈpoʊzd/ adjective, verb

Definition

Broken down into simpler parts, either chemically (like a dead plant rotting) or mathematically (separating something into basic pieces).

Etymology

From Latin 'decompositus': de- (apart) + compositus (put together). The word reverses composition, showing how things separate into elements.

Kelly Says

Decomposition is nature's recycling system—bacteria and fungi break down dead things into basic chemicals that plants reuse. It's why archaeologists can date remains by measuring how decomposed they are.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.