attenuation

Definition

The gradual loss of signal strength, wave amplitude, or general oomph as something travels through space or time. In tech, it's why your Wi-Fi sucks in the bathroom; in biology, it's why scientists deliberately weaken pathogens to make vaccines. Think of it as nature's (or physics') way of enforcing the "things get worse over distance" rule.

Example Usage

The network engineer blamed signal attenuation for the dead zones on the third floor, conveniently ignoring that the router was installed in a metal cabinet.

Source: Common technical terminology

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