PUTREFACTIVE Meaning and
Definition
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The term "putrefactive" is an adjective that describes the process or quality of putrefaction, which refers to the decomposition or breakdown of organic matter by bacteria, fungi, or other microorganisms. Specifically, it pertains to the anaerobic decay of organic materials, often resulting in the release of foul-smelling gases and the formation of putrid substances.
In the context of biology, putrefactive microorganisms are responsible for causing putrefaction in dead bodies, animal carcasses, and other decaying organic materials. These microorganisms, such as certain types of bacteria, thrive in an oxygen-deficient environment, breaking down proteins through enzymatic activity and the production of various chemicals, including ammonia and hydrogen sulfide. This process not only results in the deterioration of the original material but also generates noxious byproducts, contributing to the characteristic odor associated with putrefaction.
Outside of the biological realm, the term "putrefactive" can also be applied metaphorically to describe any process or condition characterized by decay, corruption, or moral deterioration. It may be used to describe deteriorating social or cultural standards, decaying infrastructure, or the decomposition of ideas or ideologies.
Overall, "putrefactive" relates to the decomposition of organic matter through the activity of microorganisms, with connotations of foul-smelling gases, putrid substances, and the decay of both physical and abstract entities.
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Relating to or causing putrefaction.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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Tending to promote decomposition; making putrid or rotten.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PUTREFACTIVE
- outrefactive
- lutrefactive
- -utrefactive
- 0utrefactive
- pytrefactive
- phtrefactive
- pjtrefactive
- pitrefactive
- p8trefactive
- p7trefactive
- purrefactive
- pufrefactive
- pugrefactive
- puyrefactive
- pu6refactive
- pu5refactive
- puteefactive
- putdefactive
- putfefactive
- Putrefactivel
Etymology of PUTREFACTIVE
The word putrefactive originates from the Latin term putrefact- which is the past participle stem of the verb putrefacere. This Latin word is formed by combining putrescere (meaning to rot or to become putrid) and facere (meaning to make or to cause). Therefore, putrefactive essentially means causing putréfaction or capable of producing putrefaction.
Similar spelling words for PUTREFACTIVE
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