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

Earlier inspections showed that moisture had reached the building’s structural concrete masonry walls, while exposed steel supporting the lifeguard observation deck showed visual signs of corrosion. —Karen Kucher, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 Mar. 2026

Furthermore, the water typically present in flowing crude separates and pools at low elevation points, creating localized environments for rapid internal corrosion. —Siddharth Misra, Fortune, 28 Mar. 2026

Salted roads can lead to faster development of rust and corrosion on cars, especially on the undercarriage, but also on doors and hoods, according to AAA. —Jenna Prestininzi, USA Today, 25 Mar. 2026

This type of steel retains its sharpness over extended use, resists corrosion and rust, and doesn't chip easily. —New Atlas, 23 Mar. 2026

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