verb
erode
ih-ROHD/ɪˈrəʊd/
To gradually wear away or weaken.
Waves erode the sandstone cliff, undercutting its base.
Etymology
The pieces mean “gnaw away,” an image of something being consumed bit by bit. Initially used of acids and ulcers, erode extended to geological wearing away and gradual weakening.
In context
A proliferation of diamond mines outside of De Beers' control has at last begun to erode the giant's dominion over the world's most precious gem.
More examples
- These sandy cliffs erode a little every year.
- Repeated lies have eroded her trust in him.
- Rising costs are eroding the company's profits.
Forms
erode · erodes · eroded · eroding
erosion noun — The gradual wearing away or weakening.
Similar words
- abrade
- Specifically means wearing a surface away through friction.
- undermine
- Emphasizes weakening support, confidence, or authority rather than surface wear.