Synonyms of attrition

attrition

noun

ə-ˈtri-shən 

as in erosion

a gradual weakening, loss, or destruction

took the machinery out of operation since attrition had led to the main mechanism's breaking

Synonyms & Similar Words

• erosion
• corrosion
• decay
• waste
• decomposition
• disintegration
• undermining
• breakdown
• dissolution

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• increase
• buildup
• gain

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of attrition

Currence’s analysis of 140 large data center projects has found that between 30% and 50% of projects scheduled to come online in 2026 now face delays, with community resistance identified as a primary driver of attrition across the pipeline. — Nili Gilbert, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026

Physicians now spend more time in electronic health records than with patients, a burden closely tied to burnout and attrition. — Frantz M. Berthaud, STAT, 7 July 2026

These matchups are intense and, usually, grind-it-out battles of attrition between two proud soccer nations. — Ben Church, CNN Money, 6 July 2026

Ukraine's strike campaign started out earnestly in 2024 but has significantly intensified this year, helping Ukraine gain momentum in a grueling war of attrition that has persisted for more than four years since Russia's full-scale invasion. — Brittney Melton, NPR, 30 June 2026