Meaning & Definition of word "Erosion"

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.