corroding

cor·rode  (k-rd)

v. cor·rod·ed, cor·rod·ing, cor·rodes

v.tr.

1. To destroy a metal or alloy gradually, especially by oxidation or chemical action: acid corroding metal.

2. To impair steadily; deteriorate: "Doubt and mistrust could creep into our lives, corroding personal and professional relationships" (Philip Taubman).

v.intr.

To be eaten or worn away.

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[Middle English corroden, from Latin corrdere, to gnaw away : com-, intensive pref.; see com- + rdere, to gnaw; see rd- in Indo-European roots.]

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cor·rodi·ble, cor·rosi·ble (-rs-bl) adj.

Thesaurus

Noun

1.

corroding - erosion by chemical action corrosion, erosion chemical action, chemical change, chemical process - (chemistry) any process determined by the atomic and molecular composition and structure of the substances involved pitting, indentation, roughness - the formation of small pits in a surface as a consequence of corrosion rusting, rust - the formation of reddish-brown ferric oxides on iron by low-temperature oxidation in the presence of water