corrosion

noun

cor·​ro·​sion kə-ˈrō-zhən 

1

: the action, process, or effect of corroding

2

: a product of corroding

Synonyms

• 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 wrenches are forged from chrome molybdenum steel with a nickel-chrome coating for corrosion resistance. —Gabriel Morgan, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 June 2025

Over-the-sink dish racks should be waterproof and take preventive measures to eliminate rust and corrosion. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 30 June 2025

This sleek side table from Christopher Knight Home measures 22 inches tall and is constructed with a sturdy metal base that’s both rust and corrosion resistant. —Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 21 June 2025

That artifact, moved into the attraction in 2012, also has conservation underway, fending off corrosion. —Dewayne Bevil, The Orlando Sentinel, 12 June 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