putrefaction

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

Origin:

Origin: Middle English putrefaccioun

Origin: , from Late Latin putrefactiō, putrefactiōn-

Origin: , from putrefactus

Origin: , past participle of Latin putrefacere, to make rotten; see putrefy