decayed
|de/cayed|
B2
/dɪˈkeɪd/
(decay)
decomposition
Etymology
Etymology Information
'decay' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'decaïr,' where 'de-' meant 'down' and 'caïr' meant 'to fall.'
Historical Evolution
'decaïr' transformed into the Middle English word 'decayen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'decay.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to fall down or decline,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to decompose or rot.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
past tense or past participle form of 'decay'.
The fruit decayed quickly in the warm weather.
Adjective 1
having undergone the process of decay; decomposed or rotted.
The decayed wood crumbled at the slightest touch.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/02/21 02:06