wear down

verb

Definition of wear downnext
as in to wear out

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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 down Anything below 20,000 double rubs may wear down faster and is better suited to a bouclé loveseat, accent chair or other low-traffic piece of bouclé furniture. — Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 22 July 2026 The sugar and acid in some juices (such as orange juice) may wear down tooth enamel over time. — Amber J. Tresca, Verywell Health, 16 July 2026 Get regular brake, tire and filter inspections Brakes, tires and filter frequently wear down and need to be replaced. — Keith Laing, USA Today, 8 July 2026 The one detail still more closely guarded than the guest arrivals is what Swift will wear down the aisle. — Maggie Clancy, Footwear News, 3 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for wear down
Recent Examples of Synonyms for wear down
  1. wear out
  2. break down
Verb
  • Several of the houses have a special person on staff just for the barrels, a cooper who manufactures and replaces the slats that have worn out.
    — Kyle Lucia Wu, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 July 2026
  • Relaxed pants like this pair are perfect for a long bus tour through the countryside or for wearing out to dinner—they’ll look polished without feeling uncomfortable.
    — Erin Cavoto, Travel + Leisure, 17 July 2026
Definition of wear out
Verb
  • Productivity losses aside, excessive heat brings a slew of extra costs, from surging energy bills to emergency maintenance expenses as key equipment overheats and transport systems break down.
    — Oliver Balch, Fortune, 27 July 2026
  • Let’s break down 41 players with training camp just two days away.
    — Zach Berman, New York Times, 27 July 2026
Definition of break down

Browse Nearby Words

wear (away)
wear down
wearied
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Cite this Entry

“Wear down.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/wear%20down. Accessed 28 Jul. 2026.

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