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Definition of erode

erode

/ɪˈroʊd/
e · rode
Adjective:erosive
•
Past Simple:eroded
•
Past Participle:eroded
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Present Participle:eroding
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erode Lexical Profile

erode Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To gradually diminish, weaken, or destroy an abstract quality, value, or condition over time.

Example

"Repeated delays and poor communication can quickly erode public trust in the institution."

2

To gradually wear away or be worn away by natural agents such as wind, water, or glacial ice (of soil, rock, or land).

Example

"Centuries of crashing waves have begun to erode the limestone cliffs along the coast."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for erode

• Nearby Words

ernest
ernie
ernst
erode
erogenous
eros
erosion

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the early 17th century from French éroder or directly from Latin erodere, meaning 'to gnaw away' or 'consume', formed from ex- ('away') and rodere ('to gnaw').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Erode. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/erode
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