wear down

verb

wore down; worn down; wearing down; wears down

transitive verb

: to weary and overcome by persistent resistance or pressure

Examples of wear down in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Some brands, like Bose, recommend using rubbing alcohol on the plastic exterior; others, like Sony, say solvents can wear down headphone materials. Julia Ries, Outside Online, 14 Nov. 2024 The Dodgers already have worn down the two best Yankees starting pitchers, and their bullpen is a confusing mess. Bill Plaschke, Los Angeles Times, 27 Oct. 2024 Amal's dress was designed by Oscar de la Renta Renowned designer Oscar de la Renta created the custom lace ballgown that Amal wore down the aisle. Ariana Quihuiz, People.com, 28 Sep. 2024 Their steps wear down the grass further, which makes the visual cue stronger and creates a positive feedback loop. Karen Kaplan, Los Angeles Times, 5 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for wear down 

Word History

First Known Use

1774, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of wear down was in 1774

Dictionary Entries Near wear down

Cite this Entry

“Wear down.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wear%20down. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on wear down

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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