Definition

A gradual decrease in the number of people or things, often due to natural causes like retirement or resignation.

Example

The company faced significant attrition after many employees decided to retire early.

Conversation

Did you hear about the company's attrition rate this year?

Yeah, it's been pretty high with so many people leaving.

I wonder if they will do anything to address the attrition.

I hope so, or they might struggle to keep things running smoothly.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Attrition is formed from "ad-" (meaning to) and "terere" (meaning to rub or wear away). The word describes the process of gradually wearing down or reducing something, often through continuous pressure or friction.

Memory Tip

Think of something being 'worn away' ('terere') gradually 'to' a point ('ad-') — that's why attrition means a gradual reduction.

Visually Confused Words