Attrited

Attrited refers to something that has been worn away or diminished, often gradually, through prolonged use, friction, or stress. This term can be applied in various contexts, from the physical erosion of materials to the depletion of resources or the weakening of a person's resolve.

In a physical sense, attrited can describe objects that have lost mass or shape over time due to constant interaction with their environment. For example, the surface of a rock might be attrited by wind and water, or the tread of a tire can be attrited by driving. This process is a natural consequence of forces acting upon a substance.

Beyond the physical, the term can also describe a gradual reduction in a non-physical quantity. For instance, a company's market share might be attrited by competitors, or a person's patience could be attrited by repeated provocations. In a military context, an army's strength can be attrited through sustained combat and casualties. The core idea is a steady decrease or wearing down, rather than a sudden loss.