The process of gradually wearing down or weakening through sustained pressure, friction, or harassment; a reduction in numbers typically through resignation or death rather than dismissal.
From Latin 'atterere,' meaning 'to rub against' or 'to wear away,' combining 'ad-' (to) and 'terere' (to rub). The word entered English in the 14th century, initially in theological contexts referring to imperfect repentance, but evolved to describe any gradual wearing away process.
Think of attrition like a river wearing away rock—it's slow, steady, and relentless! In warfare, it's about grinding down the enemy; in business, it's employees gradually leaving. The key is the gradual, persistent nature of the process.
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