Abrade
Verb
Definition: To scrape or wear away by friction or erosion.
Synonyms: Scrape, Wear down, Rub away
Antonyms: Polish, Buff
- The rough surface of the sandpaper can abrade the skin.
- Over time, the constant rubbing of the waves abrades the rocks along the coastline.
- Think of the word 'abrasive' which is related to causing friction or irritation. Similarly, abrade involves the action of scraping or wearing away.
Etymology:
Late Middle English from Latin 'abradere', from 'ab-' (away) + 'radere' (to scrape).
Historical Usage:The word 'abrade' has been used in English since the late Middle Ages to describe the process of scraping or rubbing away.
Related Idioms:
"Abrade one's patience"
Explanation:This phrase refers to the wearing down or irritation of someone's patience over time.
Misconceptions:
Confusing 'abrade' with 'exfoliate'.
Explanation:While both words involve the removal or scraping away of something, 'exfoliate' typically refers to the process of removing dead skin cells, usually for cosmetic purposes, whereas 'abrade' has a broader meaning and can refer to the scraping or wearing away of various materials through friction or erosion.