EAT AWAY Meaning and
Definition
-
The term "eat away" is a phrasal verb that refers to the gradual corrosion or erosion of a physical object, usually caused by a chemical substance or natural process. It implies a destructive action in which the object is consumed, deteriorated, or damaged over time. The process of eating away often occurs inorganic materials such as metal, wood, or stone, as well as organic substances like flesh or food.
In the literal sense, "eat away" describes the effect of a corrosive substance gradually dissolving or deteriorating the surface of an object. For example, rust can eat away at the metal, causing it to weaken and decay. Similarly, acid rain can eat away at buildings or statues made of stone.
Metaphorically, "eat away" can also be used to portray the gradual deterioration or destruction of non-physical entities such as emotions, relationships, or one's well-being. For instance, a long-lasting grudge can eat away at a person's happiness or peace of mind. In this context, it highlights the idea of something gradually eroding or consuming the essence of a person or situation.
Overall, "eat away" encompasses the concept of gradual corrosion, erosion, or deterioration, both in a literal and metaphorical sense, emphasizing the damaging impact of time, chemicals, or processes on various aspects of life.
Common Misspellings for EAT AWAY
- wat away
- dat away
- rat away
- 4at away
- 3at away
- ezt away
- est away
- ewt away
- eqt away
- eaf away
- eag away
- eay away
- ea6 away
- ea5 away
- eat zway
- eat sway
- eat wway
- eat qway
Etymology of EAT AWAY
The etymology of the phrase "eat away" can be traced back to the Middle English period. The word "eat" comes from the Old English word "ētan", meaning "to consume food". This root word originated from the Proto-Germanic language.
The term "away" has its roots in Old English as well, derived from the word "aweg". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "weg" which meant "way" or "path". In the context of "eat away", the word "away" suggests the notion of being consumed or eroded gradually, emphasizing the process of gradual consumption or deterioration.
Idioms with the word EAT AWAY
-
eat away at
The idiom "eat away at" means to gradually erode or consume something slowly, either literally or figuratively. It refers to the process of something slowly deteriorating or causing mental distress.
-
eat away
The idiom "eat away" means to slowly destroy or erode something, typically through a gradual process of decay or deterioration.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
