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

"So always check them for signs of wear and tear, for any fraying on the wiring or anything like that."

From BBC

The Labour-controlled authority said, "These heavier vehicles typically produce more emissions, cause greater wear and tear on roads, and critically pose a significantly higher risk in the event of a road traffic collision."

From BBC

The three-time British and Irish Lions tourist made the announcement two months before the start of the Rugby World Cup, citing wear and tear on his body.

From BBC

His style does not depend so much on explosive speed, but rather on experience and the progressive wear and tear of his opponent.

From Los Angeles Times

As time has passed, wear and tear on the surfaces has grown considerably, particularly with potholes.

From BBC

Related Words

• depletion
• depreciation
• erosion