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

Otherwise, the mulch and other organic amendments are just diluting the soil readings, and once they decompose, the lead will still be waiting in the soil.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 24, 2025

The upper layers of soil contain more active microbes, so bodies can decompose in about 20 to 30 years, rather than up to 100 in a traditional grave.

From BBC • Dec. 14, 2024

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

From "Ambushed!" by Gail Jarrow