biodeterioration

noun

bio·de·te·ri·o·ra·tion ˌbī-(ˌ)ō-di-ˌtir-ē-ə-ˈrā-shən

: the breakdown of materials by microbial action

Examples of biodeterioration in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

The researchers detected no visible biodeterioration on the drawing, apart from foxing stains (small yellow-brown spots or blotches). —

Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 22 Dec. 2020

Word History

First Known Use

1953, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of biodeterioration was in 1953

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Style

“Biodeterioration.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/biodeterioration. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

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