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at•tri•tion

Pronunciation: (u-trish'un), [key]
—n.
1. 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.
2. 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.
3. a gradual reduction in work force without firing of personnel, as when workers resign or retire and are not replaced.
4. the act of rubbing against something; friction.
5. a wearing down or away by friction; abrasion.
6. Theol.imperfect contrition. See under contrition (def. 2).

attrite

Attu

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attrition (Thesaurus)

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at•tri•tion

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