corrosion

noun

cor·​ro·​sion kə-ˈrō-zhən 

1

: the action, process, or effect of corroding

2

: a product of corroding

Synonyms

• attrition
• erosion
• undermining
• waste

Examples of corrosion in a Sentence

the corrosion of family values that is often brought on by great wealth

Recent Examples on the Web

The automobile manufacturer said in the NHTSA report that the electronic power assist steering (EPAS) ground eyelet joint may experience corrosion. —Ahjané Forbes, USA TODAY, 30 Dec. 2024

Rust and corrosion will gradually break down the metal structure of the furnace and could lead to leaks or other issues, like cracks. —Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Dec. 2024

This set includes a loveseat, two armchairs, and a coffee table that are water and corrosion resistant. —Will Porter, Architectural Digest, 2 Dec. 2024

Because of this, lead could enter the drinking water through the corrosion of plumbing materials. —Adrienne Davis, Journal Sentinel, 27 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English corrosioun, borrowed from Late Latin corrōsiōn-, corrōsiō "act of gnawing," from Latin corrōdere "to gnaw, chew up" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action — more at corrode

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

corrosion

noun

cor·​ro·​sion kə-ˈrō-zhən 

: the action, process, or effect of corroding

Medical Definition

corrosion

noun

cor·​ro·​sion kə-ˈrō-zhən 

1

: the action, process, or effect of corroding

arterial corrosion that characterizes arteriosclerosis

—The Journal of the American Medical Association

2

: a study specimen of an organ or other structure prepared by injection of hollow parts (as blood vessels) with a plastic and subsequent removal of the surrounding tissue by corrosion