WEAR AND TEAR Synonyms: 17 Similar and Opposite Words

wear and tear

noun

Definition of wear and tear next

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 The molar showed signs of normal long-term wear and tear, which could have only happened if the patient lived to chew another day. —

ArsTechnica, 13 May 2026 Beyond energy use, there's also the issue of wear and tear over time. —

Caroline Lubinsky, Martha Stewart, 13 May 2026 So, air conditioners running in hot regions, along the coastline, or in areas with poor air quality will experience more wear and tear than in milder climates. —

Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 May 2026 And there’s no need to fear wear and tear. —

Christina Shepherd McGuire, PEOPLE, 10 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for wear and tear

Recent Examples of Synonyms for wear and tear

wear

Noun

Plus, the Mary Jane-style strap secures your foot for more comfortable wear.

— Izzy Baskette, PEOPLE, 17 May 2026
Most policies only cover accidents, not failures caused by wear, overheating, or neglected maintenance.

— Christopher Elliott, Forbes.com, 16 May 2026

Definition of wear

Browse Nearby Words

wearables

wear and tear

wear (away)

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“Wear and tear.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/wear%20and%20tear. Accessed 23 May. 2026.

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