wear and tear

noun

: the loss, injury, or stress to which something is subjected by or in the course of use
especially : normal depreciation

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
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.
Spondylolisthesis is usually seen in people over 50, a symptom of natural wear and tear from aging. Vanessa Etienne, People.com, 13 Dec. 2024 Toiletry bags, depending on the quality and how often they are used, may need frequent replacing from wear and tear. Ashlyn Messier, Fox News, 6 Dec. 2024 These include plenty of polyphenols, which are antioxidant and anti-inflammatory plant chemicals that calm oxidative stress—internal wear and tear—in the body. Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 6 Dec. 2024 The most common 10-shekel coin is particularly susceptible to rust and wear and tear, and vendors have become suspicious as rumors abound that many of those available in Gaza are forgeries. Bilal Shbair and Nabih Bulos, Los Angeles Times, 5 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for wear and tear 

Word History

First Known Use

1666, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of wear and tear was in 1666

Dictionary Entries Near wear and tear

Cite this Entry

“Wear and tear.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wear%20and%20tear. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

wear and tear

noun
: the loss or damage that occurs to something in the course of normal use

More from Merriam-Webster on wear and tear

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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