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

Even with such a large profile, DEC says its offshore turbines are resistant to typhoons and corrosion. —New Atlas, 23 Oct. 2024

Used in the yacht’s foils and rigging, titanium provides robustness and corrosion resistance, essential for both sailing and horological performance. —Jennifer Lee, Forbes, 17 Oct. 2024

There are vents in the back for fresh air, pin bayonets and a slide lock to keep doors tightly closed and secure, and all-weather construction to prevent rust and corrosion. —Shea Simmons, People.com, 29 Sep. 2024

Part of the unexpectedly rapid damage is due to the age of the two steam generators and tubes, which were installed in 1990 using Alloy 600 material, now known for its particular susceptibility to stress corrosion cracking. —Therese Boudreaux | The Center Square, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 28 Oct. 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