Definition

To gradually wear away or be worn down over time, often due to natural forces like water or wind.

Example

The coastline continues to erode due to strong waves and storms.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you noticed how the riverbanks have started to erode?

Yeah, it's really noticeable, especially after all that rain.

I read that if it keeps up like this, the landscape will change a lot.

Definitely, it's amazing how quickly nature can erode things over time.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To gradually wear away or destroy something, often through natural processes like water or wind.

Example

The constant rain can erode the soil, making it less stable.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you noticed how the waves erode the beach every year?

Yeah, it's surprising how much it changes over time.

I wonder if they could do something to prevent the sand from being eroded away.

Root Explanation

Erode → It is formed from "e-" (a variant of "ex-", meaning out or away) and "rodere" (meaning to gnaw or wear away). The word describes the process of wearing away or gradually destroying something, as if it is being gnawed away.

Memory Tip

Think of something being 'gnawed away' ('rodere') from the 'outside' ('e-'), which helps you remember that to erode means to wear away gradually.

Visually Confused Words