a reduction or decrease in numbers, size, or strength

Our club has had a high rate of attrition because so many members have moved away.

a wearing down or weakening of resistance, esp. as a result of continuous pressure or harassment

The enemy surrounded the town and conducted a war of attrition.

a gradual reduction in work force without firing of personnel, as when workers resign or retire and are not replaced.

the act of rubbing against something; friction.

a wearing down or away by friction; abrasion.

Theology . imperfect contrition. See under contrition ( def. 2 ) .

noun

building , strengthening , happiness

noun

abrasion , attenuation , debilitation , depreciation , disintegration , erosion , grinding , rubbing , thinning , weakening , wear , contriteness , penance , penitence , remorse , remorsefulness , repentance , compunction , contrition , penitency , rue , friction , grief , regret , sorrow