rotting

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun (biology) the process of decay caused by bacterial or fungal action
  2. verb break down
  3. verb become physically weaker

Etymology

From Middle English rotynge (“rotting”), from Old English rotung; equivalent to rot + -ing. Conflated with Middle English rotende, present participle of roten (“to rot”), from Old English rotiende, present participle of rotian (“to rot”).

In classic literature

Synonyms

decomposition, rot, putrefaction

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