Synonyms of attrition

attrition

noun

ə-ˈtri-shən 

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

• erosion
• corrosion
• decay
• waste
• decomposition
• disintegration
• undermining
• breakdown
• dissolution

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• increase
• buildup
• gain

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of attrition

Amid rising geopolitical tensions and a murky economic outlook, anxiety is clocking into work, producing false positives in productivity that look like engagement, but are actually a precursor to costly attrition and reputation loss. — Stacey Zolt Hara, Fortune, 14 Sep. 2026

The runner-up in that race, Niki Lauda, started from 23rd, and both benefited from a race of attrition in which only 13 cars finished. — Madeline Coleman, New York Times, 9 Sep. 2026

The union says Hialeah firefighters remain underpaid compared with firefighters in neighboring departments and has pointed to significant attrition among recruits. — Veronica Egui Brito, Miami Herald, 9 Sep. 2026

Early specialization and intensive training are instead associated with higher rates of burnout, anxiety, depression and attrition. — Dr. Edith Bracho-Sanchez, CNN Money, 7 Sep. 2026