Definition

The process of organic matter breaking down, especially proteins, by bacteria and fungi, which often produces a bad smell.

Example

The putrefaction of the food left out in the sun created a terrible odor.

Conversation

Did you know that putrefaction can happen really quickly in warm weather?

Yeah, I heard it can make things smell terrible!

Exactly! It’s all about the bacteria breaking down organic matter.

Right, I guess that’s why we have to throw out food before it spoils.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Putrefaction → It is formed from "putrefacere" (from Latin, meaning to make rotten) which combines "putris" (meaning rotten) and "facere" (meaning to make or do). The word describes the process of something becoming rotten or decayed.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'made rotten' — 'putris' means rotten and 'facere' means to make. This helps you remember that putrefaction refers to the process of decay.

Visually Confused Words