attrition — the process of gradually wearing down or weakening something through sustained attack or pressure
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: the process of gradually wearing down or weakening something through sustained attack or pressure
Pronunciation (IPA): /əˈtrɪʃən/
Example Sentences
- My diet plan failed due to snack attrition - cookies slowly wore down my willpower.
- The startup's high attrition rate meant they were constantly training new employees.
- His patience faced serious attrition after waiting in line for three hours.
attrition
NOUN[/əˈtrɪʃən/]
the process of gradually wearing down or weakening something through sustained attack or pressure
Constant rain causes slow attrition of the ancient stone steps over centuries.
Poor nutrition won't stop his mission from attrition.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'attritio' (a rubbing against), derived from 'atterere' meaning 'to wear away' or 'to rub against.' The word entered English through Old French and Medieval Latin usage.
Breakdown
ad- (to) + terere (rub/wear) + -tion (noun suffix) = attrition (the act of wearing away)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My diet plan failed due to snack attrition - cookies slowly wore down my willpower.”
“The startup's high attrition rate meant they were constantly training new employees.”
“His patience faced serious attrition after waiting in line for three hours.”
“The castle withstood the siege through a long war of attrition.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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