wear away

phrasal verb

wore away; worn away; wearing away; wears away

: to gradually disappear or to cause (something) to gradually disappear or become thinner, smaller, etc., because of use

The paint on the sign had worn away.

Even a trickle of water will eventually wear rock away.

—often used as (be) worn away

The table's finish was worn away.

Examples of wear away in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

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The mineral can help prevent tooth decay by strengthening the protective outer layer of enamel that can be worn away by acids formed by bacteria, plaque and sugars in the mouth. —

Nadia Kounang, CNN, 3 Nov. 2024 The different types include: Acute erosive gastritis: Erosive gastritis occurs when the stomach lining erodes or wears away, leading to painful or bleeding ulcers (open sores). —

Lindsay Curtis, Health, 23 Oct. 2024 Outdoor brick is up for plenty of environmental elements—water among them—but indoor brick is another story, once again, thanks to its protective sealant that can be worn away or damaged with the introduction of water. —

Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 22 Oct. 2024 This is a luxury that costs but the price of a common yogurt, and the thrill does not wear away. —

Jenny Slate, The New Yorker, 15 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for wear away