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

New research has identified a straightforward and environmentally friendly way to decompose Teflon, one of the most resilient plastics in use today, and convert it into valuable chemical ingredients.

From Science Daily • Nov. 27, 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

Because bodies decompose incredibly quickly in the sweltering heat, the total number is almost certainly higher.

From Salon • Oct. 4, 2024

Scavengers could come and eat the dead animals, and what was left of their bodies would decompose and enrich the soil.

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