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

Paint will degrade over time in unregulated temperatures, especially as weather fluctuates for the seasons, and electronics will collect condensation in their circuit boards, internal pieces, and electrical equipment—all of which will cause warping and corrosion over time. —Michelle Mastro, Architectural Digest, 23 Oct. 2025

The firm also recommended access to the whirley crane near the Riggers Loft building and Red Oak Victory Ship be immediately restricted until safety hazards from corrosion can be mitigated or the crane is removed. —Sierra Lopez, Mercury News, 23 Oct. 2025

The photos show dust, scratches, stains and streaking from rainwater but Edison officials say the stainless steel canisters have not suffered damage or stress corrosion cracking that could pose a safety risk to the public. —Rob Nikolewski, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 Oct. 2025

Things that will be of interest to those involved in the Lin-gang Special Area prototype include potential maintenance costs, corrosion and impact on the marine environment. —New Atlas, 21 Oct. 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