'decompose' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'decomponere,' where 'de-' meant 'down' and 'componere' meant 'to put together.'

'decomponere' transformed into the French word 'décomposer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'decompose' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to break down into simpler parts,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.