decompose

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.

Despite recycling efforts, most plastic ends up in landfills where it can take centuries to decompose, leaching out chemicals during that time, Deeney said.

From Barron's • Jan. 26, 2026

This creates a powerful feedback loop: more nutrients lead to more algae, which consume more oxygen as they decompose, which in turn releases even more nutrients.

From Science Daily • Nov. 2, 2025

The shells serve a dual purpose — one that is functional, as they decompose to improve the soil quality, and another formal, reflecting moonlight in the evening.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2025

It is used in solving antibiotic resistance and to image enzymes that can decompose plastics.

From BBC • Oct. 9, 2024

Despite being embalmed, the body began to decompose and smell by Thursday, three days after Garfield's death.

From "Ambushed!" by Gail Jarrow