noun

1. The process of becoming rotten; putrefaction.

2. Decaying matter.

3. Any of several diseases in which breakdown of tissue occurs.

verb

1. To suffer decomposition due to biological action, especially by fungi or bacteria.

   “The apple left in the cupboard all that time had started to rot.”

2. To decline in function or utility.

   “Your brain will rot if you spend so much time on the computer, Tony!”

3. To (cause to) deteriorate in any way, as in morals; to corrupt.

Synonyms: putrefy