Definition

To break down and decompose naturally through the action of living organisms, particularly microorganisms.

Example

Plastic bags can take hundreds of years to biodegrade in landfills.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you know that some products can biodegrade in just a few months?

Really? I thought it took years for most things to break down.

It depends on the materials, but yeah, it's pretty amazing how some can biodegrade quickly.

I should start looking for those options when I shop.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Biodegrade → It is formed from "bio-" (from Greek "bios", meaning life) and "degrade" (from Latin "degradare", meaning to reduce in rank or status). The word refers to the process of breaking down organic material by living organisms, thus reducing it in a way that is associated with life processes.

Memory Tip

Think of 'life' ('bio-') breaking down materials, as 'degrade' means to reduce. This helps you remember that biodegrade refers to the natural breakdown of substances by living organisms.

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