Definition

To break down into smaller pieces or dust over time, often due to decay or rot.

Example

The old leaves began to molder on the ground as winter approached.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I found an old sandwich in my bag from last week.

Ew, that's gross! I bet it started to molder by now.

Yeah, I really need to clean out my bag more often.

Definitely! You don't want anything else to molder in there.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To cause something to break down into smaller pieces or to decay over time.

Example

The old building began to molder after years of neglect.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you seen how that abandoned building is starting to molder?

Yeah, it looks pretty bad!

I wonder how long it will take before it completely falls apart.

Root Explanation

Molder → The word originates from Old English 'moldian', meaning to crumble or decay. It refers to the process of something breaking down or decaying over time.

Memory Tip

Imagine something that is 'decaying' or 'crumbling' — that's what molder means, to break down slowly.

Visually Confused Words