tearing

adjective

tear·​ing ˈter-iŋ How to pronounce tearing (audio)
1
: causing continued or repeated pain or distress
2
3
chiefly British : splendid

Word History

First Known Use

1581, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of tearing was in 1581

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Cite this Entry

“Tearing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tearing. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.

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