SYNONYMS AND RELATED EXPRESSIONS

abrade

verb

To wear away, scrape, or roughen a surface through friction.

Compare the alternatives Definition and examples

Local English device voice, when available. This is not a recorded dictionary pronunciation.

Wear away by friction

Closest synonyms

scrape scour scuff rub away wear away erode

Related words and expressions

These extend or explain the idea and may require a different sentence structure.

Usage distinction

Erode covers more processes than friction; scuff often implies superficial damage.

Return to top

Test this word in the Comprehensive Synonym Exam

CHECK THE MEANING IN CONTEXT

See abrade in use

Fine sand can abrade the painted surface when rubbed against it.

Dictionary practice example.

In the college workshop, Mina noticed that a rough cloth could abrade the finish of an old wooden box, leaving pale marks where she rubbed it.

From Restoring the Workshop.

Compare an alternative with the original word in each passage. Shared meanings do not make every pair interchangeable.

Synonym reference scope and sources

The groups distinguish the senses selected for this study entry. Closest synonyms and broader related expressions have separate labels. The listed sources support lexical selection; not every phrase is a direct quotation from a source.

How the synonym reference was prepared / WordNet 3.0 license

Back to synonym results Open this word's definition Both dictionaries

Return to top