Rot

Definition

Rot can function as a noun meaning decay or decomposition of organic matter; as a verb, it means to undergo decay or to cause something to decay.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb (intransitive/transitive)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA: /rɑt/
• Respelling: rot

British English

• IPA: /rɒt/
• Respelling: rot

Etymology

Old English rotian “to cause to rot, decay,” and noun rot “decay,” of Germanic origin; related to Dutch rotten and German rotten.

Derivatives

• rotten (adjective)
• rotting (verb gerund/adjective)
• rotter (noun, informal)
• rotundity (unrelated homograph)

Synonyms

• decay
• decompose
• deteriorate
• spoil
• putrefy

Antonyms

• preserve
• conserve
• freshen
• cure

Usage

Noun: The noun "rot" is used in biological, agricultural, and everyday contexts to describe the process or result of organic decay. For example, "Gardeners removed the potatoes affected by rot to protect the rest of the crop."

Verb: As a verb, "to rot" means to decay or to cause decay. For example, "If you leave apples out too long, they will rot," or "Moist conditions rot the wooden fence over time."

Related Terms

• Decomposition: The breakdown of organic matter by bacteria and fungi.
• Decay: The process of gradual destruction or decline.
• Spoilage: Degradation of food quality due to microbial growth.
• Putrefaction: Decomposition of proteins with foul odor.
• Preservation: Methods to prevent or slow decay.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Decay or decomposition of organic matter – the process by which plant or animal tissues break down into simpler substances.
  • Example: "After the flood, the barn’s hay was wet and began to rot, attracting pests."
• A state of deterioration or corruption – metaphorically used for systems or structures.
  • Example: "Critics pointed to political rot within the administration."

Verb

• To undergo decay or decomposition – to become rotten through microbial or chemical action.
  • Example: "The uncovered fruit began to rot in the sun."
• To cause something to decay – to subject organic matter to conditions that promote rot.
  • Example: "Water damage rotten the floorboards over years."