1.
If you ~ something such as an idea, a feeling, or a system, you gradually make it weaker or less likely to succeed by repeated efforts.
Instead of an outright coup attempt, the rebels want to ~ her authority.
= erode
PHRASAL VERB: V P P n
2.
If you ~ a debt or an amount of money, you gradually reduce it.
The group had hoped to ~ its debts by selling assets.
PHRASAL VERB: V P P n