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 higher its gold content, the better a watch can stand up to corrosion when exposed to H2O (leather bands, though, are a no-no for chlorine or salty water). —Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 27 May 2026

Metal roofing systems offer strong wind and corrosion resistance when properly coated. —David Nye, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 May 2026

Basalt composites already have industrial applications in marine structures, rebar systems, and fire-resistant materials due to corrosion resistance and chemical stability. —Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 26 May 2026

Made from Grade 5 titanium, the carabiners are designed to withstand both heat and cold, while also resisting bending and corrosion. —Maryna Holovnova, New Atlas, 25 May 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