Corrode (verb)

1. To eat away at or destroy the surface of (a metal or other material) by chemical action, especially by oxidation.
2. To weaken or impair the quality of something gradually, especially by undermining or eroding it.

Origin:

From the latin word corrodi, meaning "to gnaw away, or to corrode".

Examples:

1. The acid began to corrode the metal.
2. The salt water had corroded the metal on the boat.
3. The constant exposure to the elements had corroded the paint on the car.
4. His constant criticism had corroded her confidence over time.
5. The harsh chemicals had corroded the plastic pipes.