decomposition

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

This movement into lower soil layers is linked not only to the decomposition of organic material but also to biological activity, such as organisms that help break down leaves and redistribute particles.

From Science Daily • Mar. 23, 2026

And since raising their concerns, Ronald's wife Patricia died on 3 February, never knowing how her husband came to be in such an advanced state of decomposition.

From BBC • Mar. 15, 2026

There, detectives discovered the body of 87-year-old William Mitchell, which had been in the mortuary room for 36 days and showed "obvious signs of decomposition", the court heard.

From BBC • Feb. 19, 2026

Some may be transformed into compounds that microbes can further break down, while others could become even more resistant to decomposition.

From Science Daily • Feb. 9, 2026

After decades of mixing with the soil underneath and becoming enriched by animal and plant decomposition, the ash and mud were finally able to support large plants.

From "Mountain of Fire" by Rebecca E. F. Barone