decompose
verb
de·com·pose
ˌdē-kəm-ˈpōz 
decomposed; decomposing; decomposes
1
: to separate into constituent parts or elements or into simpler compounds
decompose water by electrolysis
decompose a word into its base and affixes
2
: rot
Examples of decompose in a Sentence
Bacteria and fungi help decompose organic matter.
the smell of decomposing leaves
The compound will decompose in the presence of light.
Recent Examples on the Web
To prevent the fallow area from turning into a weed patch, cover it with agricultural-grade plastic or a thick layer of slowly decomposing mulch such as wood chips.
—
Nadia Hassani, The Spruce, 20 Feb. 2026
Most paper products decompose in landfills within a couple of months, according to RecycleNation, a recycling technology company.
—Julia James, Dallas Morning News, 19 Feb. 2026
When microorganisms decompose organic matter in warmer soils, nutrients accumulate in the air and water pockets between soil particles.
—Aimee Classen, The Conversation, 16 Feb. 2026
Funk assures that the softened, decomposing cardboard will allow plants to grow through.
—Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 9 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for decompose
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Nadia Hassani, The Spruce, 20 Feb. 2026
Most paper products decompose in landfills within a couple of months, according to RecycleNation, a recycling technology company.
—Julia James, Dallas Morning News, 19 Feb. 2026
When microorganisms decompose organic matter in warmer soils, nutrients accumulate in the air and water pockets between soil particles.
—Aimee Classen, The Conversation, 16 Feb. 2026
Funk assures that the softened, decomposing cardboard will allow plants to grow through.
—Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 9 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for decompose
Cite this Entry
“Decompose.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/decompose. Accessed 23 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
decompose
verb
de·com·pose
ˌdē-kəm-ˈpōz
1
: to separate a thing into its parts or into simpler compounds
decompose water into hydrogen and oxygen
2
: to break down through chemical change : rot
Medical Definition
decompose
verb
de·com·pose
ˌdē-kəm-ˈpōz
decomposed; decomposing
: to separate into constituent parts or elements or into simpler compounds
decompose water by electrolysis
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