wear and tear

noun

: the loss, injury, or stress to which something is subjected by or in the course of use

especially : normal depreciation

Synonyms of wear and tear

• wear

Examples of wear and tear in a Sentence

my favorite jeans finally succumbed to wear and tear and had to be replaced

Recent Examples on the Web

These are repairs needed because of wear and tear, not due to a collision. — Brian Sloan, CNBC, 4 Sep. 2026

The star, which has been fenced off, is being repaired by the Hollywood Historic Trust because of cracks from wear and tear, Martinez said. — Iris Kwok, Los Angeles Times, 2 Sep. 2026

In theory, sub-micron-sized particles scoured from the implant’s surface by years of wear and tear could embed themselves in the brain, increasing the chances of neurodegeneration. — Mike McRae 31, New Atlas, 1 Sep. 2026

Therefore, wearing a watch on your left wrist is a smart styling choice, leaving your investment piece less prone to scratches, bumps, and other wear and tear. — Larissa Ratschkowski, Glamour, 30 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1666, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for wear and tear

• aftercare
• anywhere
• billionaire
• chinaware
• debonair
• dinnerware
• disrepair
• doctrinaire
• earthenware
• everywhere
• frigidaire
• kitchenware

Kids Definition

wear and tear

noun

: the loss or damage that occurs to something in the course of normal use