corrosion
UK: kəˈrəʊʒən | US: kəˈroʊʒən
n. the process of corroding or being corroded, especially by chemical action
n. the gradual destruction or weakening of a material or structure due to environmental reactions
n. (figurative) the slow deterioration of something abstract (e.g., trust, relationships)
corrosion = cor<together> + ros<gnaw> + ion<noun suffix>
- cor (from Latin com-, meaning "together" or "intensely")
- ros (from Latin rodere, meaning "to gnaw" or "to wear away")
- ion (a noun-forming suffix indicating an action or process)
Etymology Origin:
The word corrosion traces back to Latin corrodere ("to gnaw to pieces"), combining com- (intensifying prefix) and rodere ("to gnaw"). This vividly depicts the gradual, destructive action of chemical or environmental wear—like tiny teeth gnawing at a material. Over time, the term expanded metaphorically to describe abstract decay (e.g., societal trust).
The iron gate showed signs of corrosion after years of exposure to rain.
Saltwater accelerates the corrosion of metal surfaces.
Engineers use protective coatings to prevent corrosion in bridges.
The corrosion of public trust in institutions is a growing concern.
Acid rain contributes to the corrosion of limestone buildings.