corrosive

/kəˈroʊsɪv/

/kəˈrʌʊsɪv/

Other forms: corrosives; corrosively

A corrosive substance, like hydrochloric acid, will eat away most things on which it is spilled. Watch out in chemistry lab: you wouldn't want to destroy your homework, desk, or worse, your own skin by spilling something corrosive on it.

The word corrosive comes from the Latin word, corrodere, meaning "to gnaw away." Rodere (to gnaw) is the same root word for rodent, so you can remember the word corrosive because something that is corrosive gnaws through things like a rodent. The adjective corrosive is also used to describe something that is bitingly or spitefully sarcastic. If you're known for your corrosive wit, you probably don't win any popularity contests.

Definitions of corrosive

1. adjective

   of a substance, especially a strong acid; capable of destroying or eating away by chemical action
   synonyms: caustic, erosive, mordant, vitriolic

   destructive

   causing destruction or much damage
2. adjective

   spitefully sarcastic
   “corrosive cristism”

   synonyms:

   sarcastic

   expressing or expressive of ridicule that wounds
3. noun

   a substance having the tendency to cause corrosion (such a strong acids or alkali)
   type of:

   chemical compound, compound

   (chemistry) a substance formed by chemical union of two or more elements or ingredients in definite proportion by weight