1 : (+ object) : to remove (something that has been recorded) from a tape (such as a videotape or audiotape) or a computer disk
The recording can be erased and the tape used again.
Several important files were accidentally erased.
also : to remove recorded material from (a tape or disk)
You can erase the tape/disk and use it again.
2 a : chiefly US : to remove (something written) by rubbing or scraping so that it can no longer be seen
(+ object)
She erased the wrong answer from her paper and filled in the correct one.
I erased the chalk marks from the blackboard.
(no object)
These marks won’t erase. (=can’t be erased)
2 b : (+ object) chiefly US : to remove something written from (a surface)
erase (=clean) the blackboard
3 : (+ object) : to remove any thought or memory of (something)
Time has erased the event from her memory. (=she has completely forgotten the event)
– erasable adjective
an erasable tape