Definition

The process by which soil, rock, or other materials are worn away and removed from one location to another, often caused by wind, water, or ice.

Example

The erosion of the coastline has become a serious environmental issue.

Conversation

Have you noticed the erosion on the beach lately?

Yeah, it’s pretty alarming how fast it's happening.

I wonder what we can do to prevent further erosion.

Maybe we should look into some local conservation projects.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Erosion → It is formed from "e-" (a variant of "ex-", meaning out of or away from) and "rodere" (meaning to gnaw). The word describes the process of material being worn away or gnawed out from a surface, typically by natural forces like water or wind.

Memory Tip

Think of something being 'gnawed away' ('rodere') from a surface, as if it's being worn down or taken 'out of' ('e-'). This helps you remember that erosion means the gradual wearing away of land or material.

Visually Confused Words