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

The Dodgers are going to protect their personnel from as much wear and tear as possible — and from themselves.

From Los Angeles Times • May 15, 2026

Recreation can ease tension and fatigue in the muscles and joints, supporting metabolic balance and strengthening the body's ability to resist wear and tear.

From Science Daily • May 4, 2026

Some examples of normal wear and tear include faded paint, worn carpeting and small holes from nails used to hang art.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 30, 2026

Orbán will be 63 next month, but the wear and tear of 38 years in frontline politics are obvious to even his hardcore supporters.

From BBC • Apr. 17, 2026

Father is walking around in frayed trousers, and his tie is also showing signs of wear and tear.

From "The Diary of a Young Girl" by Anne Frank

Related Words

• depletion
• depreciation
• erosion