Putrefaction \Pu`tre*fac"tion\, n. [L. putrefactio: cf. F.

           putr['e]faction. See Putrefy.]
   1. The act or
         the process of putrefying; the offensive decay
      of
         albuminous or other matter.
      [1913 Webster]

  
         Note: Putrefaction is a complex phenomenon involving a
         multiplicity of chemical reactions, always accompanied
         by, and without doubt caused by, bacteria and
         vibriones; hence, putrefaction is a form of
         fermentation, and is sometimes called putrefaction
         fermentative. Putrefaction is not possible under
         conditions that preclude the development of living
         organisms. Many of the products of putrefaction are
         powerful poisons, and are called cadaveric poisons, or
         ptoma["i]nes.
         [1913 Webster]

   2. The condition of being putrefied;
         also, that which
      putrefied. "Putrefaction's breath."
         --Shelley.
      [1913 Webster]