corrosion

noun

cor·​ro·​sion kə-ˈrō-zhən 

1

: the action, process, or effect of corroding

2

: a product of corroding

Synonyms of corrosion

• erosion

Examples of corrosion in a Sentence

the corrosion of family values that is often brought on by great wealth

Recent Examples on the Web

The researchers report that corrosion is triggered by an invisible film of liquid lead just one micron thick, which accelerates metal loss to a staggering rate of several millimeters per year. —Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 12 Dec. 2025

This is when two similar materials touch and creates an electrochemical process that, once moisture meets the metals, ignites corrosion. —Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 10 Dec. 2025

Shun’s traditional Damascus steel mixes its high-carbon VG-MAX core with a more corrosion-resistant stainless steel for higher performance on the cutting edge while remaining easy to clean and maintain. —Jesse Raub, Bon Appetit Magazine, 9 Dec. 2025

Rust, corrosion or damage from natural events are not covered. —Alora Bopray, USA Today, 5 Dec. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English corrosioun, borrowed from Late Latin corrōsiōn-, corrōsiō "act of gnawing," from Latin corrōdere "to gnaw, chew up" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action — more at corrode

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for corrosion

• erosion
• explosion
• implosion

Kids Definition

corrosion

noun

cor·​ro·​sion kə-ˈrō-zhən 

: the action, process, or effect of corroding

Medical Definition

corrosion

noun

cor·​ro·​sion kə-ˈrō-zhən 

1

: the action, process, or effect of corroding

arterial corrosion that characterizes arteriosclerosis

—The Journal of the American Medical Association

2

: a study specimen of an organ or other structure prepared by injection of hollow parts (as blood vessels) with a plastic and subsequent removal of the surrounding tissue by corrosion