Words / B2

k-uh-ROHD/kəˈrəʊd/

To corrode is to destroy metal slowly by chemical action, or to damage something gradually: salt water corrodes; corruption corrodes trust. Rust is a common result; erode is wear by wind/water (already elsewhere as related geography). Salt water corroded the fittings. Mix-up: erode; explode. Do not write corrode for a sudden smash.

Meaning

To destroy metal slowly by chemical action, or to damage something gradually.

Examples

• “Salt water corroded the fittings, the marine case said.”
• “Secrecy corroded trust in the inquiry source, which is the figurative sense.”

Good to know

corrode + metal; corrosion; corrosive. Geography twin: erode. Trap: explode. Chemistry, geography, and news. Eat away slowly, not a one-blow break.

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