tears

/ tɪəz /

plural noun

1. the clear salty solution secreted by the lacrimal glands that lubricates and cleanses the surface of the eyeball and inner surface of the eyelids

2. a state of intense frustration (esp in the phrase bored to tears )

3. weeping

4. presented so as to be easily assimilated

   reading without tears

Idioms and Phrases

see bore to death (tears); burst into (tears); crocodile tears. Also see under tear.

Example Sentences

The son of victim Ms Makgato cried repeatedly in court, while Mr Olivier was seen wiping away tears as Mr De Wet gave his evidence.

Read more on BBC

From this episode unfolds a tragedy of estrangement, rejection and self-recrimination that ultimately tears a family apart.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

Corden said as soon as Jones walked in he burst into tears and was so "unbelievably happy to see you".

Read more on BBC

“I’m so excited,” she said, her voice cracking as tears appeared in her eyes.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Several foster parents waited outside, some in tears and begging to be let in.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• break 
• crack 
• damage 
• divide 
• grab 
• injure 
• mangle 
• pull 
• rive 
• rupture 
• separate 
• sever 
• shred 
• slash 
• snatch 
• split 
• wrench 
• yank