Definition

1. Noun:

   • A type of fungal decay in timber: "dry-rot" refers to a destructive process, primarily caused by certain fungi, that causes wood to become brittle and crumble into a dry, powdery substance, often occurring in poorly ventilated conditions.
   • (Figurative) A hidden, progressive decay: Used metaphorically to describe a hidden, corrupting influence that gradually undermines an organization, system, or moral state.

2. Verb:

   • To decay with dry rot: To be affected by or cause something to be affected by the fungal decay known as dry rot.

Usage Examples

• Noun: The old floorboards had to be replaced due to extensive dry-rot. Corruption was the dry-rot that eventually brought down the administration.

• Verb: If the timber is not treated, it will dry-rot within a few years. The untreated beams have begun to dry-rot in the damp cellar.

Advanced Usage

• "to be riddled with dry rot": to be extensively damaged or corrupted by it.

Variants and Related Words

• Dry-rotted (adj): Describing something that has been affected by dry rot.

Synonyms

• Decay (n/v): The general process of rotting or decomposition.
• Deterioration (n): The process of becoming progressively worse.
• Fungal decay (n): More specific term for rot caused by fungi.

Related Phrases

• Wet rot: A different type of fungal decay in wood that requires a higher moisture content than dry rot.

Verb

1. affect or be affected with dry rot