
Corrode
Not Instant
Corrode suggests a slow process, not something that happens quickly.

The old bridge corroded over decades of exposure.
Physical Change
Use 'corrode' to describe the physical damage of materials, usually by chemicals or weather.

Acid rain can corrode building surfaces.
Visible Effects
Corrosion often results in noticeable changes like rust or color fading.

The pipes corroded and turned a greenish color.
Compare with
DecayDecomposeDeteriorateDisintegrateDissolveErodeGnawRustWear away
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