Crossword Genius

Slowly destroy what a Norseman did, said East Ender (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

erode

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'slowly destroy' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for erode that I've seen before include "fragment" , "Abrade" , "Eat away" , "'Deteriorate, wear away (5)'" , "Become ground down or deteriorate" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app