verb
decompose
dee-kuhm-POHZ
Decompose (verb) means to break something down into its separate parts or components. Example: “Chemists decomposed the compound to identify its individual elements.”
verb
1
To break something down into its separate parts or components.
"Chemists decomposed the compound to identify its individual elements."
"The software decomposes the task into smaller, manageable steps."
2
To rot or decay, especially through natural biological processes.
"Fallen leaves decompose slowly over the winter, enriching the soil."
"The abandoned fruit had started to decompose in the bowl."
How to use decompose
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo fall apart into pieces or components — either literally (rotting) or in an analytical sense (breaking a problem into parts).
Common pairings
decompose into parts
begin to decompose
decomposing matter
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- decomposes
- Past tense
- decomposed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Chemists _____ the compound to identify its individual elements.
Etymology
Borrowed from Middle French décomposer, built from de- plus compose.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for decompose
See all rhymes for decompose →Frequently asked questions
What does “decompose” mean?
The word “decompose” means to break something down into its separate parts or components. In plain terms, to fall apart into pieces or components — either literally (rotting) or in an analytical sense (breaking a problem into parts).
How do you pronounce “decompose”?
“Decompose” is pronounced dee-kuhm-POHZ (/ˌdikəmˈpoʊz/ in IPA).
How do you use “decompose” in a sentence?
Here is “decompose” used in a sentence: “Chemists decomposed the compound to identify its individual elements.”
What part of speech is “decompose”?
“Decompose” is a verb.
Where does the word “decompose” come from?
The word “decompose” comes from Middle French. Borrowed from Middle French décomposer, built from de- plus compose.
How many meanings does “decompose” have?
“Decompose” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to break something down into its separate parts or components.
