erosion

• Nom désignant la dégradation ou l'usure progressive de la surface terrestre ou d'autres matériaux sous l'action de forces naturelles telles que l'eau, le vent ou la glace.

A noun referring to the gradual wearing away or destruction of the Earth's surface, or other materials, by natural forces such as water, wind, or ice.

indénombrable

1. Geological processB2formalscientific

   The gradual wearing away of the Earth's surface by natural forces such as wind, water, or ice.

   Érosion géologique

   • Coastal erosion has destroyed several beaches along the shore.
   • Soil erosion is a major problem for farmers in this region.
   • The Grand Canyon was formed by millions of years of erosion.

   Synonymesabrasionattritioncorrasiondenudationdisintegration

   Antonymesaccretionaccumulationdeposition

2. Material degradationB2formaltechnical

   The gradual destruction or deterioration of a material due to friction, chemical action, or other processes.

   Érosion des matériaux

   • The erosion of the metal pipes was caused by acidic water.
   • Engineers are studying the erosion of the bridge's concrete supports.
   • Regular maintenance can slow down the erosion of building materials.

   Synonymesabrasionattritioncorrosiondeteriorationdisintegrationwear

3. Gradual declineC1formal

   The gradual reduction or weakening of something abstract, such as confidence, values, or authority.

   Érosion (sens abstrait)

   • There has been a steady erosion of trust in the government.
   • The erosion of traditional values concerns many older people.
   • Economic pressures led to the erosion of workers' rights.

   Synonymesattritioncorrosiondeclinedeteriorationdiminutionweakening

   Antonymesconsolidationreinforcementrestorationstrengthening