ATTRITION

[noun] [U] [slightly formal] - the gradual weakening and destroying of (something, esp. the strength or confidence of an enemy) by repeatedly attacking itFeminists are struggling to stop the attrition of women's rights in the country.Repeated criticisms from his colleagues led to the gradual attrition of his argument.Terrorist groups and the government have been engaged in a costly war of attrition since 1968.(slightly formal) Attrition is also [US and ANZ] for natural wastage.See at nature (LIFE).