putrefaction

/,pju:tri'fækʃn/
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putrefaction

Rome had fallen into moral putrefaction.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • The process of decaying or rotting, especially of organic matter, typically accompanied by a foul smell: This is the primary biological meaning, describing decomposition caused by microorganisms like bacteria or fungi.
    • A state of extreme moral corruption or depravity: A figurative use describing a state of profound moral decay, often in a society or institution.
Examples of Usage

  • Noun (Biological decay):

    • The putrefaction of the food in the warm kitchen created an unbearable stench.
    • Forensic scientists study the stages of putrefaction to determine time of death.

  • Noun (Moral decay):

    • The historian argued that the empire's collapse was preceded by a period of moral putrefaction.
    • The novel explores the spiritual putrefaction within the corrupt aristocracy.
Advanced Usage
  • "To be in a state of putrefaction": To be actively rotting or in a state of advanced moral decay.
    • The abandoned meat was in an advanced state of putrefaction.
    • Critics accused the political system of being in a state of moral putrefaction.
Variants and Related Words
  • Putrefy (verb): To decay or rot and produce a foul smell.
    • The organic waste began to putrefy in the summer heat.
  • Putrefactive (adjective): Causing or relating to putrefaction.
    • The putrefactive bacteria broke down the tissue.
  • Putrid (adjective): Decayed and smelling foul; or, morally corrupt.
    • A putrid smell came from the drain.
    • He was accused of putrid business practices.
Synonyms
  • Decomposition: The state or process of rotting or decay.
  • Rot: The process of decaying.
  • Corruption: Dishonest or fraudulent conduct; can also mean decay (especially in a moral sense).
  • Degeneracy: The state of having low moral standards.
Related Phrases
  • "Stench of putrefaction": A common collocation emphasizing the foul smell associated with decay.
    • The stench of putrefaction filled the air near the swamp.
  • "Moral putrefaction": A fixed phrase for describing societal or institutional moral decay.
    • The preacher warned against the moral putrefaction of modern society.
putrefaction

Rome had fallen into moral putrefaction.

Noun
  1. moral perversion; impairment of virtue and moral principles
    • the luxury and corruption among the upper classes
    • moral degeneracy followed intellectual degeneration
    • its brothels, its opium parlors, its depravity
    • Rome had fallen into moral putrefaction
  2. (biology) the process of decay caused by bacterial or fungal action
  3. a state of decay usually accompanied by an offensive odor

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