abrades
v. C1 Advanced US //æˈbɹeɪdz// UK //ɐbɹˈeɪdz// abrades
v. to wear away a surface by rubbing it against something rough. It can also mean to cause a person to feel ashamed or embarrassed.
v. to wear away or erode a surface through friction; to cause a person to feel shame or humiliation. Often describes the physical wearing down of materials or the emotional impact of criticism.
The rough stone abrades the smooth surface of the wood.
The constant friction of the river stones abrades the rock over many years, eventually creating a deep canyon.
The public's harsh criticism abrades the politician's confidence, forcing him to reconsider his long-held stance on the controversial policy.