I. decomposition noun
Etymology: probably from decomposite (I) , after English composite: composition
obsolete : the combination of composites : repeated composition
II. de·com·po·si·tion (|)dēˌkämpə|zishən noun
Etymology: probably from French décomposition, from décomposer, after French composer to compose: composition
: the act or process of decomposing : the state of being decomposed:
a. : the separation or resolution (as of a substance) into constituent parts or elements or into simpler compounds
decomposition of mercuric oxide into mercury and oxygen
— compare dissociation 1a
b. : disintegration
decomposition by fission
c. : organic decay
the decomposition of a dead body
: dissolution
the complete decomposition of the opposition