putrefaction Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a state of decay usually accompanied by an offensive odor
    rot.
  2. noun (biology) the process of decay caused by bacterial or fungal action
    rotting; rot; decomposition.
  3. noun moral perversion; impairment of virtue and moral principles
    depravation; depravity; corruption; degeneracy.
    • the luxury and corruption among the upper classes
    • moral degeneracy followed intellectual degeneration
    • its brothels, its opium parlors, its depravity
    • Rome had fallen into moral putrefaction

WordNet

Pu`tre*fac"tion noun
Etymology
L. putrefactio: cf. F. putréfaction. See Putrefy.
Definitions
  1. The act or the process of putrefying; the offensive decay of albuminous or other matter. ✍ Putrefaction is a complex phenomenon involving a multiplicity of chemical reactions, always accompanied by, and without doubt caused by, bacteria and vibriones; hence, putrefaction is a form of fermentation, and is sometimes called putrefaction fermentative. Putrefaction is not possible under conditions that preclude the development of living organisms. Many of the products of putrefaction are powerful poisons, and are called cadaveric poisons, or ptomaïnes.
  2. The condition of being putrefied; also, that which putrefied. "Putrefaction's breath." Shelley.

Webster 1913