Decay means when something gradually breaks down, wears out, or becomes worse over time. It can happen to living things, objects, or even ideas. It's like when a fruit rots, a building crumbles, or a relationship fades away. Full definition
The rate of decay in their samples was not steady but varied according to the season. (discovermagazine.com)
We do not solve the problems of urban decay by the application of brown soap or iodine. (religion-online.org)
With that said, it does contain acid that can strip your teeth of enamel opening it up to a greater chance of tooth decay from other foods and sugars you eat. (ironmanmagazine.com)