Synonyms

wearing

American

[wair-ing] / ˈwɛər ɪŋ /

adjective

gradually impairing or wasting.

Reading small print can be wearing on the eyes.
wearying or exhausting.

a wearing task.
relating to or made for wear.

wearing British

/ ˈwɛərɪŋ /

adjective

causing fatigue or exhaustion; tiring

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of wearing

First recorded in 1805–15; wear + -ing ²

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The app connects with heart rate monitors, although users can also manually enter activities if they are not wearing one.

From Science Daily • May 16, 2026

Cannes had kept the award under wraps until the actor walked on stage for the premiere wearing a black suit and a white beret.

From Barron's • May 15, 2026

The pieces, like these breathable nylon satin Game shorts, are designed for style and function both on and off the pitch, whether you’re wearing them to a real scrimmage or just one you’re dreaming of.

From Los Angeles Times • May 15, 2026

Cooper would certainly have found it funny that while delivering this heartfelt tribute, Lisa is wearing a truly garish bright pink ski suit.

From BBC • May 13, 2026

I shimmy into clothes and Celia comes in, still wearing her sweaty tank top and bike shorts.

From "Keeping Pace" by Laurie Morrison

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023