1. gradually becomes worse in condition; deteriorates or rots
2. undergoes radioactive disintegration
Usage: physics

1. the process of gradual deterioration or decomposition
2. radioactive disintegration of atomic nuclei
Usage: physics

Examples

• The old wooden fence decays more each winter.
• Sugar decays your teeth if you don’t brush regularly.
• Uranium-238 decays into lead over billions of years.
• The decay of the abandoned building was evident everywhere.
• Scientists study radioactive decay to determine the age of fossils.
• Tooth decay can be prevented with proper dental care.
• The decay rate of this isotope is well documented.