erosion

noun

ero·​sion i-ˈrō-zhən 

1

a

: the action or process of eroding

b

: the state of being eroded

2

: an instance or product of erosion

erosional

i-ˈrō-zh(ə-)nəl 

adjective

erosionally

i-ˈrō-zh(ə-)nəl-ē 

adverb

Synonyms

• attrition
• corrosion
• undermining
• waste

Examples of erosion in a Sentence

Landscapers planted grass to stop the erosion of the hillside.

Centuries of erosion by wind have carved grooves in the rocks.

Recent Examples on the Web

Polling data showed key demographic shifts, with Cruz's advantage among older, rural voters holding firm while his support in the suburbs of Houston and Dallas saw more erosion. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024

This year could hinge on whether Harris maintains those trends—or if Trump cuts into Harris’ urban leads while halting suburban erosion in places like Waukesha. —Joe Walsh, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024

Rivals Fox News Channel and CNN are seen experiencing similar erosions in that period. —Brian Steinberg, Variety, 4 Nov. 2024

Use Mulch and Compost to Protect Bare Soil Bare soil is highly susceptible to erosion, but a simple layer of mulch can act as a protective shield. —Kristin Guy, Sunset Magazine, 31 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1541, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing erosion

• gully erosion

Kids Definition

erosion

noun

ero·​sion i-ˈrō-zhən 

: the action or process of eroding : the state of being eroded

erosional

-ˈrōzh-nəl 

-ˈrō-zhən-ᵊl

adjective

Medical Definition

erosion

noun

ero·​sion i-ˈrō-zhən 

1

a

: the superficial destruction of a surface area of tissue (as mucous membrane) by inflammation, ulceration, or trauma

erosion of the uterine cervix

b

: progressive loss of the hard substance of a tooth

2

: an instance or product of erosion

a circular erosion on the skin