noun

corrosion

kuh-ROH-zhun/kəˈrəʊʒn/

The gradual wearing away or weakening of a material, especially metal, through chemical action.

Rust and deep pits reveal corrosion on the iron bolt.

A corroded iron bolt beside its damaged metal joint, visible rust layers and deep pits, natural materials closely observed.

Etymology

corLatintogether; perhaps adds emphasis

+rosLatinto gnaw, eat away

+ionLatinaction or process

The 'gnaw' root pictures material being eaten away bit by bit; the prefix may intensify the action. Corrosion names this gradual wearing away by chemical action.

In context

nptelhrd3:11

chemical or electro chemical degradation of material, which includes corrosion, and which includes oxidation

Mod-01 Lec-16 Defect Structure & Mechanical Behaviour of Nanomaterials

More examples

Road salt speeds up corrosion on exposed car parts.
The plumber checks the copper pipes for signs of corrosion.
This alloy resists corrosion even in acidic conditions.

Forms

corrosion

corrode verb — To damage or weaken through chemical action.

corrosive adjective — Capable of damaging materials through chemical action.

Similar words

rust: Specifically concerns corrosion of iron or iron-containing metals.
oxidation: Names a chemical process that does not always damage materials.