[uh-trish-uh
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. | Theology. imperfect contrition. See under contrition (def. 2). |
attrition at·tri·tion (ə-trĭsh'ən)
n.
A wearing away by friction or rubbing, such as the loss of tooth structure caused by abrasive foods or grinding of the teeth.