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

Kiffin cited other concerns, ranging from backups disengaging if more close games provide fewer on-field opportunities to the long-term wear and tear on players’ bodies. — Seth Emerson, New York Times, 24 July 2026

The rental agreement reportedly required the production to return the ship in good condition or pay for damage beyond ordinary wear and tear. — Daniel Cassady, ARTnews.com, 24 July 2026

The wear and tear on a genuine antique or vintage item will appear organic, not designed. — Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 July 2026

On the back, both foldables feature an oval camera island and a Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 panel that's designed to deter daily wear and tear. — Kimberly Gedeon, PC Magazine, 23 July 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