Noun

• S: (n) decomposition, rot, rotting, putrefaction, breakdown ((biology) the process of decay caused by bacterial or fungal action)

Verb

• S: (v) decompose, rot, molder, moulder (break down) "The bodies decomposed in the heat"
• S: (v) waste, rot (become physically weaker) "Political prisoners are wasting away in many prisons all over the world"