putrefaction

[ pyoo-truh-fak-shuh n ]
/ ˌpyu trəˈfæk ʃən /

noun

the act or process of putrefying; the anaerobic decomposition of organic matter by bacteria and fungi that results in obnoxiously odorous products; rotting.
the state of being putrefied; decay.

Origin of putrefaction

1350–1400; Middle English < Late Latin putrefactiōn- (stem of putrefactiō) a rotting, equivalent to Latin putrefact(us) (past participle of putrefacere to putrefy) + -iōn- -ion

OTHER WORDS FROM putrefaction

pu·tre·fac·tive, pu·tre·fa·cient [pyoo-truh-fey-shuh nt] /ˌpyu trəˈfeɪ ʃənt/, adjective

Example sentences from the Web for putrefactive

Medical definitions for putrefactive (1 of 2)

putrefactive
[ pyōō′trə-făktĭv ]

adj.

Bringing about putrefaction.
Of, relating to, or characterized by putrefaction.

Medical definitions for putrefactive (2 of 2)

putrefaction
[ pyōō′trə-făkshən ]

n.

Decomposition of organic matter, especially protein, by microorganisms, resulting in production of foul-smelling matter.
Putrefied matter.
The condition of being putrefied.