C1verbnatureenvironment
US/ˌdiː.kəmˈpoʊz/
UK/ˌdiː.kəmˈpəʊz/
to slowly break down into simpler parts by natural processes, as dead plants and animals do
In context
Fallen leaves decompose on the forest floor and feed the soil.
Plastic bags can take hundreds of years to decompose in landfills.
Bacteria help decompose dead animals and return nutrients to the ecosystem.
Words that go with decompose
verb + adverb
- decompose slowlyWaste in cold soil decomposes slowly.
- decompose naturallyPaper decomposes naturally, but metal does not.
- decompose rapidlyFood scraps decompose rapidly in a warm compost pile.
verb + preposition
- decompose intoOrganic matter decomposes into simple compounds.
- begin to decomposeA body will begin to decompose within a few days.
- fail to decomposeSome plastics fail to decompose even after decades.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
The rubbish is decomposed in the sea.Correct: The rubbish decomposes in the sea.