sə̇ˈnes ə n(t)s noun
( -s )
Etymology: from senescent, after such pairs as English benevolent : benevolence
1. : the quality or state of being senescent
clinical problems of later maturity, senescence , and senility — Therapeutic Notes
racial senescence
2. : the phase of plant growth that extends from full maturity to actual death and is characterized by an accumulation of metabolic products, increase in respiratory rate, and a loss in dry weight especially in leaves and fruits