'Decomposition' definitions:
Definition of 'decomposition'
From: WordNet
noun
The analysis of a vector field [syn: decomposition, vector decomposition]
noun
In a decomposed state [syn: decomposition, disintegration]
noun
(chemistry) separation of a substance into two or more substances that may differ from each other and from the original substance [syn: decomposition, decomposition reaction, chemical decomposition reaction]
noun
(biology) the process of decay caused by bacterial or fungal action [syn: decomposition, rot, rotting, putrefaction]
noun
The organic phenomenon of rotting [syn: decay, decomposition]
Definition of 'Decomposition'
From: GCIDE
- Decomposition \De*com`po*si"tion\, n. [Pref. de- (in sense 3 intensive) + composition: cf. F. d['e]composition. Cf. Decomposition.]
- 1. The act or process of resolving the constituent parts of a compound body or substance into its elementary parts; separation into constituent part; analysis; the decay or dissolution consequent on the removal or alteration of some of the ingredients of a compound; disintegration; as, the decomposition of wood, rocks, etc. [1913 Webster]
- 2. The state of being reduced into original elements. [1913 Webster]
- 3. Repeated composition; a combination of compounds. [Obs.] [1913 Webster]
- Decomposition of forces. Same as Resolution of forces, under Resolution.
- Decomposition of light, the division of light into the prismatic colors. [1913 Webster]
Synonyms of 'decomposition'
From: Moby Thesaurus
- ablation,
- atomization,
- biodegradability,
- biodegradation,
- breakup,
- caries,
- carrion,
- corrosion,
- corruption,
- crumbling,
- decay,
- degradability,
- degradation,
- dilapidation,
- disintegration,
- disjunction,
- disorganization,
- dissolution,
- dry rot,
- erosion,
- foulness,
- gangrene,
- incoherence,
- mildew,
- mold,
- mortification,
- necrosis,
- oxidation,
- oxidization,
- putrefaction,
- putrescence,
- putridity,
- putridness,
- rancidity,
- rancidness,
- rankness,
- ravages of time,
- resolution,
- rot,
- rottenness,
- rust,
- slough,
- sphacelation,
- sphacelus,
- spoilage,
- tooth decay,
- wear,
- wear and tear