erode

verb
UK: /ɪˈrəʊd/
US: /ɪˈroʊd/

  1. To gradually destroy the surface of something through the action of wind, rain, or other natural forces.

    1. The heavy rain will erode the soil if we don't plant trees.
    2. Coastal cliffs erode quickly due to the constant pounding of the waves.

  2. To gradually weaken or destroy something important.

    1. Our freedoms slowly erode when we are not vigilant.
    2. The value of your savings can erode because of high inflation.

Synonyms

weaken wear away corrode decline deteriorate
erode adjective

  1. Affected or damaged by the gradual wearing away of something.

    1. The eroded cliffs are dangerous to walk near.
    2. Eroded soil is not good for growing healthy plants anymore.
erode noun

  1. The process or state of being gradually worn away.

    1. Soil erosion is a major environmental problem.
    2. The erosion of trust between the people and government is concerning.

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "erode" in English means: To gradually destroy the surface of something through the action of wind, rain, or other natural forces., To gradually weaken or destroy something important..

The phonetic transcription of "erode" is /ɪˈrəʊd/ in British English and /ɪˈroʊd/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "erode": weaken, wear away, corrode, decline, deteriorate.

Example usage of "erode": "The heavy rain will erode the soil if we don't plant trees.". More examples on the page.