wear
n. uncountablen. the damage or change that happens to something when you use it a lot over a long time. It is often used with the word 'tear' to describe how things get old.
n. damage, impairment, or erosion sustained by an object through normal use or exposure to the elements. Often appears in the fixed binomial 'wear and tear' to describe the expected depreciation of property.
The tires show a lot of wear after the long trip.
The carpet in the hallway shows significant wear because it is the main path through the house.
While the engine remains mechanically sound, the exterior of the vessel exhibits considerable wear from years of exposure to salt spray and harsh maritime conditions.
Probably identical with British Latin Vedra, itself of Celtic origin.
Commonly functions as an uncountable noun when referring to the process of erosion; often paired with 'and tear'.
- 01
does the Pope wear a funny hat
Obviously! Rhetorical question in response to a question where the answer is an emphatic yes.
- 02
if the shoe fits, wear it
If a description fits, it is probably the case; if an insult accurately describes you, you must bear it; if you take offence at an insult that was only implicitly directed at you, you admit the insult is true enough to be recognizable.
- 03
wear one's heart on one's sleeve
To be very transparent, open, or forthright about one's emotions.