putrefy
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈpjuːtrɪfaɪ/
KK: /ˈpjuːtrəˌfaɪ/
intransitive verb
Definition
To undergo decay and produce a bad smell, often due to the breakdown of organic matter.
Example
The food left out in the sun began to putrefy, creating a terrible smell.
Tense Forms
Past: putrefied
Past Participle: putrefied
Conversation
Did you notice that fruit we left out on the counter?
Yeah, it started to putrefy pretty quickly.
I can't believe how fast things can spoil in this heat.
I know, we should definitely clean up more often.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
decay
decompose
rot
Antonyms
freshen
revive
heal
transitive verb
Definition
To cause something to decay and produce a bad smell.
Example
The food began to putrefy after being left out for too long.
Tense Forms
Past: putrefied
Past Participle: putrefied
Conversation
Did you hear about the old food they found in the fridge?
Yeah, it was so bad that it started to putrefy.
I can't believe they let it go that long without cleaning.
Root Explanation
Putrefy → It is formed from "putrere" (meaning to rot) and the suffix "-fy" (meaning to make or cause to be). The word "putrefy" means to cause something to rot or decay.
Memory Tip
Think of something that is 'made to rot' — 'putrere' means to rot, and '-fy' means to make.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.