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 Doing the same motion constantly can wear down muscles, nerves or tendons, causing a repetitive strain injury, per Cleveland Clinic. — Samantha Agate, Charlotte Observer, 25 July 2026 Never use abrasive cleaning tools or abrasive detergents as that can wear down the PTFE coating on your grill mat. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 23 July 2026 Homes contain unpredictable people and objects that wear down or break. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 23 July 2026 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 See All Example Sentences for wear down
Recent Examples of Synonyms for wear down
  1. wear out
  2. break down
Verb
  • The conditions could help them, given the pitches will be worn out and tired after the heatwave that has gripped the United Kingdom, but few Pakistani supporters will believe their team can win.
    — Ahsan Iftikhar Nagi, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2026
  • This is a sign that internal parts like your clutch or transmission bands are wearing out.
    — Michael Kurko, USA Today, 17 Aug. 2026
Definition of wear out
Verb
  • Smith often tries to attack with his skill and can break down players one-on-one easily.
    — Corey Pronman, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2026
  • But the rock is under constant monitoring, evacuation plans are prepared and experts say the rock is more likely to break down gradually than in one huge chunk.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 18 Aug. 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 22 Aug. 2026.

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