attritional
|at-tri-tion-al|
/əˈtrɪʃənəl/
gradual wearing down
Etymology
'attritional' originates from the Late Latin noun 'attritio' (from Latin 'atterere'), with the English adjectival suffix '-al' added in Modern English.
'attritio' (Late Latin) from 'atterere' ('ad-' + 'terere' meaning 'to rub') passed into Old French/Medieval Latin and Middle English as 'attricioun'/'attrition', and the adjective 'attritional' was formed later in Modern English by adding '-al'.
Initially it referred to physical rubbing or wearing away ('to rub down' or 'wear away'); over time the sense broadened to mean gradual reduction or weakening (e.g., of numbers, morale, or forces), and 'attritional' now describes things relating to that process.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
relating to or resulting from attrition; causing or involving gradual reduction in numbers, strength, or effectiveness through sustained pressure, wear, or friction.
The company pursued an attritional strategy, gradually weakening competitors through steady market pressure.
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Adjective 2
describing a military or conflict situation characterized by wearing down the opponent through continuous losses rather than quick, decisive engagements (i.e., a war of attrition).
The campaign became an attritional conflict, with both sides suffering steady casualties.
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Last updated: 2025/11/17 01:26