Embrittlement is the term used to describe the process by which a material loses its toughness and becomes brittle. Synonyms for embrittlement include brittleness, fragility, weakness, vulnerability, and decay. These words all refer to the loss of strength in a material or substance, making it more prone to cracking, breaking, and shattering. Embrittlement can be caused by a variety of factors, including exposure to extreme temperatures, radiation, or chemicals. It can also occur due to changes in the chemical composition of a material over time, such as oxidization or corrosion. Regardless of the cause, embrittlement can have serious consequences and must be carefully monitored and addressed to ensure the safety and integrity of structures and materials.