decomposition : Dictionary / Wörterbuch (BEOLINGUS, TU Chemnitz)

English Dictionary: decomposition	by the DICT Development Group
2 results for decomposition
From WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006) [wn]:
decomposition n the analysis of a vector field [syn: decomposition, vector decomposition] in a decomposed state Synonym(s): decomposition, disintegration (chemistry) separation of a substance into two or more substances that may differ from each other and from the original substance Synonym(s): decomposition, decomposition reaction, chemical decomposition reaction (biology) the process of decay caused by bacterial or fungal action Synonym(s): decomposition, rot, rotting, putrefaction the organic phenomenon of rotting Synonym(s): decay, decomposition
From Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913) [web1913]:
Decomposition \Decom`posi"tion\, n. [Pref. de- (in sense 3 intensive) + composition: cf. F. d[82]composition. Cf. {Decomposition}.] 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.] {Decomposition of forces}. Same as {Resolution of forces}, under {Resolution}. {Decomposition of light}, the division of light into the prismatic colors.