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 body is made of titanium, while the blade is crafted from D2 steel – a material known for its resistance to wear and corrosion, though not to the same degree as true stainless steel. —Maryna Holovnova, New Atlas, 27 Feb. 2026

Invented in the 1950s and 1960s, PFNA and PFOSA are commonly used in consumer and industrial products for their water-, grease-, and stain-repellent properties and ability to withstand heat and corrosion, according to a news release. —Sara Moniuszko, USA Today, 26 Feb. 2026

Using sodium chloride on hard surfaces also causes significant wear, tear, and corrosion of concrete and metal. —Markis Hill, Kansas City Star, 25 Feb. 2026

The ceramic matrix composites help safeguard national security, boost economic competitiveness other critical industry sectors that depend on products that can withstand extreme temperatures, radiation, corrosion, and intense mechanical stress. —Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 23 Feb. 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