attrition

/əˈtrɪʃən/
noun
  1. A gradual reduction or weakening of something, especially through sustained pressure, friction, or loss.
    • The company reduced its workforce through natural attrition rather than layoffs.
    • The war became a war of attrition, with both sides suffering heavy losses.
    • The constant friction caused attrition of the metal gears over time.
  2. In human resources, the natural decrease in the number of employees as they retire, resign, or otherwise leave and are not replaced.
    • To cut costs, the school relied on attrition instead of firing teachers.
    • The department's attrition rate increased after the new policy was announced.
    • High employee attrition can hurt a company's productivity and morale.
  3. The act of wearing down or rubbing away by friction.
    • The river's flow caused attrition of the rocks along its bed.
    • Attrition of the brake pads is normal after many miles of driving.
    • Dental attrition from grinding teeth can damage enamel over time.
What does "attrition" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean