Meaning of the Word
Attrition refers to the gradual reduction or weakening of something due to continuous loss, wear, or friction. It is often used in the contexts of workforce management, warfare, and natural processes.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- The process of reducing the size or strength of something through continuous loss or weakening.
- The gradual decrease in the number of employees through resignation, retirement, or death, rather than layoffs.
- A natural wearing down or erosion caused by friction or consistent pressure.
- In a military context, the weakening of an opponent through sustained attacks.
- The loss of customers or participants over time.
History and Origin
The word “attrition” originates from the Latin “attritio”, meaning “a rubbing against” or “abrasion.” Derived from “atterere” (to rub against), it entered the English language in the late 14th century, initially referring to physical wear. Over time, its meaning expanded to include the gradual depletion of resources, people, or strength.
Detailed Explanation
Attrition is a term with versatile applications. In business, it commonly refers to the reduction of a workforce through natural processes like retirements or resignations rather than forced layoffs. In nature, it describes the erosion of materials through friction or abrasion. In warfare or competition, attrition signifies a strategy of gradually wearing down an opponent’s resources or strength. The term underscores gradual and often inevitable decline rather than abrupt change.
Example Sentences
- The company managed its employee attrition rate by improving workplace policies.
- Over the years, the riverbank showed significant attrition due to constant water flow.
- The prolonged conflict resulted in a war of attrition, exhausting both sides.
- Customer attrition is a major concern for subscription-based businesses.
- The manager analyzed the reasons behind the high attrition among junior staff.
- The rocks on the shore were smoothed over centuries of attrition by the ocean waves.
- A strategy of attrition may work in the long term but requires patience and resources.
- The sports team’s roster saw attrition as players retired or transferred.
- The policy changes aimed to minimize the attrition of highly skilled employees.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Erosion: The gradual wearing away of material or strength.
- Reduction: The process of decreasing in size, number, or strength.
- Decline: A gradual decrease or weakening over time.
- Depletion: The process of using up or reducing resources.
- Diminution: A steady reduction or decrease.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Turnover: The rate at which employees leave and are replaced in an organization.
- Wear: The process of gradual deterioration or damage from use or friction.
- Churn: The loss of customers or subscribers in a business context.
- Depreciation: A reduction in value or quality over time, often used in finance.
- Abrasion: The physical wearing down of a surface through friction.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Retention: The opposite concept, referring to maintaining employees or customers.
- Friction: A cause of attrition, often referring to resistance or conflict.
- Exhaustion: The depletion of resources or strength over time.
- Resignation: A natural reason for attrition in a workforce.
- Ebb: A gradual decline or reduction, often in intensity or strength.
Antonyms
- Retention: Maintaining or preserving employees, resources, or participants.
- Growth: An increase in size, number, or strength.
- Accumulation: The process of gathering or increasing resources.
- Expansion: A broadening or enlarging of scope or size.
- Strengthening: Reinforcing or enhancing stability and durability.
