1. the gradual wearing away of rock, soil, or land by natural forces such as water, wind, or ice
Usage: geology
2. the gradual destruction or weakening of something
Usage: figurative

Examples

• Coastal erosion threatens many beachfront homes.
• The Grand Canyon was formed by millions of years of erosion.
• Heavy rainfall caused severe soil erosion on the hillside.
• Wind erosion carved strange shapes in the desert rocks.
• The erosion of public trust in government is a serious concern.
• Years of neglect led to the erosion of the old building’s foundation.
• The erosion of traditional values worries many older citizens.