putrefaction

• Substantiv, das den Prozess des Verfalls organischer Substanz bezeichnet, oft mit üblem Geruch, verursacht durch Bakterien oder Pilze; wird auch im übertragenen Sinne für moralischen Verfall oder Korruption verwendet.

A noun referring to the process of organic matter decomposing, often accompanied by a foul smell, caused by bacterial or fungal action; also used figuratively to describe moral decay or corruption.

unzählbar

1. State of decayC1formal

   A condition of decomposition, often accompanied by a foul smell.

   Verwesung

   • The putrefaction of the organic matter filled the room with a nauseating odor.
   • The ancient tomb showed signs of advanced putrefaction.
   • The smell of putrefaction warned the hikers to stay away from the carcass.

   Synonymecorruptiondecaydecompositionputrescencerotspoilage

2. Biological decompositionC1formalscientific

   The natural process of decay caused by microorganisms like bacteria or fungi.

   Fäulnis

   • Putrefaction is a key stage in the decomposition of dead organisms.
   • The biologist studied the rate of putrefaction under different environmental conditions.
   • Bacterial action accelerates the putrefaction of plant matter.

   Synonymecorruptiondecaydecompositionputrescencerotspoilage

   Antonymepreservation

3. Moral corruptionC2formal

   A state of moral decay or perversion; the impairment of virtue and ethical principles.

   Moralischer Verfall

   • The novel explores the putrefaction of society's moral fabric.
   • His actions were a sign of deep personal putrefaction.
   • The regime's putrefaction was evident in its widespread corruption.

   Synonymecorruptiondecaydegeneracydegradationdepravityrotrottenness

   Antonymeintegritymoralitypurityrighteousnessvirtue