decay

the process of breaking down or rotting, especially of organic matter such as food or plants

descomposición, putrefacción

Collocations decay of organic material

• The food had started to decay.

  La comida había empezado a descomponerse.

the process of becoming worse or damaged over time, especially through neglect or lack of care

deterioro, descomposición

Collocations decay of buildings

• The old house was showing signs of decay.

  La antigua casa mostraba signos de deterioro.

to break down or rot, especially of organic matter such as food or plants

descomponerse, pudrirse

Collocations decay over time

• The fruit will decay if you leave it out.

  La fruta se pudrirá si la dejas fuera.

to become worse or damaged over time, especially through neglect or lack of care

deteriorarse, descomponerse

Collocations decay over time

• The old bridge is slowly decaying.

  El viejo puente está deteriorándose lentamente.