3. Cause of decay. [R.]

He that plots to be the only figure among ciphers, is the decay of the whole age.

Bacon.

Syn. -- Decline; consumption. See Decline.

De*cayed" (?), a. Fallen, as to physical or social condition; affected with decay; rotten; as, decayed vegetation or vegetables; a decayed fortune or gentleman. -- De*cay"ed*ness (#), n.

The Gutenberg Webster's Unabridged Dictionary: Section D and E · 第 199 / 2785 题