wear and tear

American  

[tair] / tɛər /

Or wear-and-tear

noun

1. damage or deterioration resulting from ordinary use; normal depreciation.

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wear and tear British  

noun

1. damage, depreciation, or loss resulting from ordinary use

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wear and tear Idioms  

1. Damage and deterioration resulting from ordinary use and exposure, as in This sofa shows a lot of wear and tear; we should replace it. [Second half of 1600s]

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Etymology

Origin of wear and tear

First recorded in 1660–70

Example Sentences

Wear and tear on Trout and Ohtani and Rendon’s ailments also weigh on a team that is long on payroll and short on results.

From New York Times • Apr. 4, 2022

Wear and tear is an issue for any older athlete, and Woods is no exception.

From Washington Times • Apr. 9, 2019

Wear and tear on the pitching staffs was a given.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 2, 2015

Wear and tear is also fueling the rebound, according to Melaniphy: Consumer goods -- skirts, shoes, slacks and electronics -- need replacing, he said. 

From Chicago Tribune • Apr. 16, 2012

Wear and tear and worry of modern existence?—Oh yes, I know!—but why the wear tear and worry at all?

From Ardath by Corelli, Marie

Related Words

• depletion
• depreciation
• erosion