\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.
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.
2. The condition of being putrefied; also, that which
   putrefied. ``Putrefaction's breath.'' --Shelley.