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DictionarywearDeterioration through use
verb / noun

wear

Damage from use, friction, or age.

The constant rubbing wears a hole in the fabric.

Etymology
wearOld Englishto wear

The clothing verb developed senses involving continued use. The noun wear names the deterioration that repeated use or friction produces.

More examples

  • The old steps show years of wear.
  • His shoes wore out after one season.
  • The tires have worn unevenly.

Forms

wear · wears · wore · worn · wearing

Similar words

erode
Often suggests gradual removal by friction or natural forces.
abrade
Specifically means wearing away through friction.