erosion

[ɪˈroʊʒən]

Origin: From Latin "erosio(n-)", from "erodere" (to erode), from "e-" (out) + "rodere" (to gnaw)

Part of Speech: noun

Definitions:

1. The gradual destruction or wearing away of something by natural forces (water, wind, or ice)
2. The gradual loss or destruction of something important
3. (Medical) The wearing away of tissue or tooth enamel through physical or chemical action

Example Sentences:

• Coastal erosion has caused several beachfront homes to collapse into the ocean.
• Years of neglect led to the erosion of public trust in the government.
• The dentist noticed significant erosion on the patient's tooth enamel due to acidic drinks.

Word Forms:

• Verb: erode
• Adjective: erosive
• Adverb: erosively

Synonyms:

• deterioration
• wearing away
• degradation
• weathering
• corrosion

Memory Tricks:

1. Think "e-ROSE-ion" - like a rose slowly losing its petals to wind and rain
2. Remember "e-ROAD-ion" - like a road being slowly worn away by weather and traffic

Usage Notes: While primarily used to describe physical wearing away of earth and rock, "erosion" is commonly used metaphorically to describe gradual decline in abstract concepts like values, rights, or relationships.