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 Most of the skeletons found in Stirling’s chapel had the sorts of wounds archaeologists expected to find on siege victims, like sword cuts, blunt trauma, and the wear and tear of hand-to-hand combat. — Popular Science Team, Popular Science, 23 Sep. 2026 The risk comes from possible damage related to product design, not regular wear and tear. — Hali Smith, Idaho Statesman, 17 Sep. 2026 Aging was once viewed as simple wear and tear, like a machine slowly breaking down, but modern biology has revealed a more complicated picture. — Venki Ramakrishnan, Scientific American, 15 Sep. 2026 Understanding Your Coverage Boundaries Home warranties cover the normal wear and tear on your home. — Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 14 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for wear and tear
Recent Examples of Synonyms for wear and tear
wear
Noun
  • Adidas will produce a kids’ footwear, apparel and sports accessories line for athletic and everyday wear tied to the series.
    — Vicki M. Young, Footwear News, 7 Oct. 2026
  • Whether windows are showing gradual wear or have been affected by severe weather, a coordinated replacement project can improve comfort, efficiency and appearance while helping homeowners prepare their homes for years ahead.
    — Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 5 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 10 Oct. 2026.

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