erode
/ɪˈroʊd/
verb
- To gradually wear away or break down the surface of something, usually by natural forces like wind, water, or ice.
- Coastal cliffs are constantly eroded by the crashing waves.
- Wind and rain can erode the topsoil if there are no plants to hold it in place.
- The river slowly erodes the rocks in its path over thousands of years.
- To gradually reduce or weaken something, such as trust, confidence, or value.
- Repeated scandals can erode public trust in the government.
- Inflation erodes the purchasing power of your savings over time.
- Constant criticism began to erode her self-confidence.
Antonyms