Attrition Common

Origin: Latin suffix -tion

Attrition has 7 different meanings across 1 category:

Definitions

Noun

erosion by friction

"The constant rubbing of sand against the stone caused significant attrition over centuries."

abrasion attrition corrasion detrition

the wearing down of rock particles by friction due to water or wind or ice

"The relentless river eventually caused significant attrition on the jagged rocks lining its banks."

grinding abrasion attrition detrition

sorrow for sin arising from fear of damnation

"When he realized his sins would lead to eternal punishment, a deep sense of attrition washed over him as he feared the fires of hell."

attrition contrition contriteness

a wearing down to weaken or destroy

"a war of attrition"

attrition

the act of rubbing together; wearing something down by friction

"The rough edges of the stone were smoothed out through attrition as it tumbled in the riverbed for years."

attrition

Wearing or grinding down by friction.

"The relentless wind caused severe attrition on the ship's hull, gradually scraping away layers of paint and metal."

Verb

To grind or wear down through friction.

"The constant vibration of the machine caused severe attrition on the metal gears, eventually requiring them to be replaced."