Pronunciation: [ɐbɹˈe͡ɪz] (IPA) 
The word "abrase" is spelled with an "a" sound, followed by a "b" sound, and then a long "a" sound. The "r" is pronounced with a tap or flap, and the "s" is pronounced with a voiceless "s" sound. The final "e" is silent. The IPA phonetic transcription for "abrase" is /əˈbreɪz/, which means the first sound is a schwa, followed by a stressed long "a" sound, then a voiced "z" sound.
The verb "abrase" refers to the action of wearing down or diminishing the surface of something through friction or erosion. It involves the act of rubbing or scraping something in a forceful manner, often resulting in the removal of small particles or layers from its surface. This term is commonly used to describe the gradual wearing away of materials or substances due to abrasion, which may be caused by a variety of factors such as mechanical action, contact with rough surfaces, or exposure to harsh chemicals.
In a literal sense, "abrase" implies the act of physically smoothing or polishing a rough surface by employing an abrasive material, such as sandpaper or a pumice stone. This can be done to achieve a desired texture or finish, especially in crafts, woodworking, or metalworking. Additionally, "abrase" can also be used metaphorically to describe the gradual erosion or weakening of something, such as a person's willpower, a relationship, or an organization, due to constant friction or pressure.
Overall, "abrase" encompasses the idea of wearing or diminishing the surface of something through the use of friction or erosion, both in a literal and metaphorical sense. It implies the removal or alteration of material through forceful rubbing or scraping, often resulting in a smoother or weakened surface.
The word "abrase" has its origins in the Latin word "abradere", which is a combination of the prefix "ab-" (meaning "away" or "off") and the verb "radere" (meaning "to scrape" or "to scratch"). Over time, "abradere" was adapted into Old French as "abra(h)ser", which retained the same meaning of "scrape" or "rub off". Eventually, this Old French term evolved into the Middle English word "abrase", which continued to carry the sense of "to scrape or wear off by friction". The use of "abrase" in English dates back to the 16th century and is still in use today, primarily in the field of dentistry to refer to the action of wearing away tooth enamel.
