Meaning & Definition of word "Erosion"

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    Erosion

    /ɪˈroʊʒən/

    noun:

    • 1. The process by which soil, rock, or other surface material is worn away and removed from one location to another.
      • Example: Erosion along the riverbank has significantly altered the landscape over the years.
    • 2. The gradual destruction or diminishing of something.
      • Example: The erosion of our civil liberties is a concern for many citizens.
    • 3. The act of eroding or the state of being eroded.
      • Example: The erosion of the coastline is accelerated by climate change and rising sea levels.

    Etymology

    From Latin erosio, from erodere 'to erode', from e- 'away' + rodere 'to gnaw'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    soil erosion:

    The removal of the upper layer of soil, a serious environmental issue.

    erosion control:

    Methods or measures used to prevent the loss of soil or land by water or wind.

    coastal erosion:

    The loss of coastal land due to wave action, tidal currents, or weather.

    bank erosion:

    The wearing away of riverbanks or shorelines caused by the flow of water.

    erosion rate:

    The speed at which erosion occurs in a particular area.

    Related Words

    degradation:

    The process by which something is reduced in quality or value.

    weathering:

    The breaking down of rocks and minerals due to weather elements.

    sedimentation:

    The process of settling or deposition of sediments.

    Slang Meanings of erosion

    Meaning: Slow loss or decline of something important.

    Example Sentence: After the company’s bad decisions, there was a real erosion of trust among employees.

    Meaning: Gradual wearing away of relationships.

    Example Sentence: Their constant arguments caused an erosion of their friendship.