Corrode

Corrode cor·​rode /kəˈrōd/ Verb

1. to impair or destroy gradually

“Like an unchecked cancer, hate corrodes the personality and eats away its vital unity.”

– Martin Luther King Jr. (1929-1968)

2. to wear away by chemical action

“Awards become corroded, friends gather no dust.”

– Jesse Owens (1913-1980)