noun
putrescence
pyoo-TRES-uns/pjuˈtrɛsəns/
The process or state of rotting with a foul smell.
The pear's soft, moldy flesh shows advanced putrescence.
Etymology
The Latin verb means “grow rotten,” expressing entry into decay rather than simply being rotten. The noun names that developing process or the foul condition it produces.
In context
foul smell of putrescence
More examples
- Warm, damp conditions speed the putrescence of dead fish.
- She opens the trash bin and recoils at the putrescence inside.
- The fallen fruit has reached an advanced state of putrescence.
Forms
putrescent adjective — Rotting and giving off a foul smell.
Similar words
- rot
- An everyday word for decay, not necessarily emphasizing foul odor.
- decomposition
- Describes organic breakdown without necessarily implying a foul smell.