as in erosion
a gradual weakening, loss, or destruction
took the machinery out of operation since attrition had led to the main mechanism's breaking
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Recent Examples of attrition
So there’s been an attrition, for sure.
—
Chris Willman, Variety, 24 Mar. 2026
On the picket lines, teachers from Twin Rivers and Natomas described high rates of turnover at their schools, and argued that higher compensation and better working conditions would reduce that attrition.
—Sacbee.com, 23 Mar. 2026
Board member Joe Kozminski asked if the administration could use several years of attrition to reach a balanced budget.
—Michelle Mullins, Chicago Tribune, 17 Mar. 2026
As the conflict enters its third week, there are signs of attrition.
—Mohammed Sergie, semafor.com, 16 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for attrition
Chris Willman, Variety, 24 Mar. 2026
On the picket lines, teachers from Twin Rivers and Natomas described high rates of turnover at their schools, and argued that higher compensation and better working conditions would reduce that attrition.
—Sacbee.com, 23 Mar. 2026
Board member Joe Kozminski asked if the administration could use several years of attrition to reach a balanced budget.
—Michelle Mullins, Chicago Tribune, 17 Mar. 2026
As the conflict enters its third week, there are signs of attrition.
—Mohammed Sergie, semafor.com, 16 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for attrition
Recent Examples of Synonyms for attrition
erosion
Noun
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Other improvements include adding erosion-control measures to prevent soil from washing away, installing new fencing to guide trail users and protect nearby areas, and landscaping to revegetate areas affected by construction.—
Brian Sherrod,
CBS News,
23 Mar. 2026
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Aggressive turning or tilling harms microorganisms, kills beneficial insects and earthworms, increases erosion, removes air pockets, releases carbon into the atmosphere and brings dormant weed seeds to the surface, where conditions are perfect for their growth.—
ABC News,
ABC News,
23 Mar. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Attrition.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/attrition. Accessed 31 Mar. 2026.
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