wear and tear

Definition of wear and tearnext
as in wear
the result of long and hard use my favorite jeans finally succumbed to wear and tear and had to be replaced

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of wear and tear All items arrived clean (professional cleaning is included in your BNTO box subscription) and showed no wear and tear, though they were wrinkled from shipping and needed a good steam before wearing. — Jessie Quinn, StyleCaster, 16 Oct. 2026 Tom Brady is no stranger to the toll wear and tear can have on your body—playing in the NFL for 23 seasons can do that to a person. — Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 15 Oct. 2026 That process can accelerate with exposure to heat, sunlight, and wear and tear, such as squeezing a bottle or opening and closing its cap. — Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 14 Oct. 2026 Jouffret says the team hopes to showcase the creations through a potential exhibition or runway presentation, although some pieces would need repairs after the wear and tear of filming. — Tanya Fedak, Variety, 13 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for wear and tear
Recent Examples of Synonyms for wear and tear
wear
Noun
  • The 14k gold-over-brass finish and cubic zirconia stones add just enough shine to dress up a T-shirt and jeans without feeling too fancy for daily wear.
    — Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 28 Oct. 2026
  • This Quince tee is especially cozy thanks to being made from 100 percent cashmere, which softens more with every wear.
    — Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 28 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Wear and tear.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/wear%20and%20tear. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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