wear away
phrasal verb
wore away; worn away; wearing away; wears away
: to gradually disappear or to cause (something) to gradually disappear or become thinner, smaller, etc., because of use
The paint on the sign had worn away.
Even a trickle of water will eventually wear rock away.
—often used as (be) worn awayThe table's finish was worn away.
Examples of wear away in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
For much of the last decade, Mustaine has experienced significant discomfort since the cartilage in the tips of his fingers has worn away from decades of frenzied playing, causing the bones to scrape together.
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Jon Wiederhorn, Los Angeles Times, 20 Feb. 2026
Do not use a soaking wet mop or harsh scrubbing pads that can scratch the floor or wear away the finish.
—Emily Benda Gaylord, The Spruce, 30 Dec. 2025
Recent decisions by Paramount’s new management have only exacerbated the situation, and Weiss’ is likely to further wear away at its journalism bona fides.
—Brian Steinberg, Variety, 22 Dec. 2025
Protective coatings wear away with time and use, making regular reapplication a good way to keep winter boots in good condition.
—Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for wear away
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Jon Wiederhorn, Los Angeles Times, 20 Feb. 2026
Do not use a soaking wet mop or harsh scrubbing pads that can scratch the floor or wear away the finish.
—Emily Benda Gaylord, The Spruce, 30 Dec. 2025
Recent decisions by Paramount’s new management have only exacerbated the situation, and Weiss’ is likely to further wear away at its journalism bona fides.
—Brian Steinberg, Variety, 22 Dec. 2025
Protective coatings wear away with time and use, making regular reapplication a good way to keep winter boots in good condition.
—Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for wear away
Cite this Entry
“Wear away.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wear%20away. Accessed 21 Feb. 2026.
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