decomposition Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun the analysis of a vector field
    vector decomposition.
  2. noun in a decomposed state
    disintegration.
  3. noun (chemistry) separation of a substance into two or more substances that may differ from each other and from the original substance
    chemical decomposition reaction; decomposition reaction.
  4. noun (biology) the process of decay caused by bacterial or fungal action
    rotting; rot; putrefaction.
  5. noun the organic phenomenon of rotting
    decay.

WordNet

De*com`po*si"tion noun
Etymology
Pref. de- (in sense 3 intensive) + composition: cf. F. décomposition. Cf. Decomposition.
Definitions
  1. The act or process of resolving the constituent parts of a compound body or substance into its elementary parts; separation into constituent part; analysis; the decay or dissolution consequent on the removal or alteration of some of the ingredients of a compound; disintegration; as, the decomposition of wood, rocks, etc.
  2. The state of being reduced into original elements.
  3. Repeated composition; a combination of compounds. Obs.

Webster 1913