wear down

verb

wore down; worn down; wearing down; wears down
Synonyms of wear downnext

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.
Over time, the seal at the bottom of the door wears down, cracks, and becomes uneven. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 17 Aug. 2026 The bullpen, which had been baseball’s best for a long stretch, was wearing down; eventually, the cost of so many innings comes due. — Louisa Thomas, New Yorker, 16 Aug. 2026 Brown is a physical, run-it-up-the-middle running back that wears down an opposing defense over time. — Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 15 Aug. 2026 That wider reach gives scammers access to renters who feel worn down by rising prices and fierce competition. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 12 Aug. 2026 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

Rhymes for wear down

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Browse Nearby Words

wear away
wear down
wearer
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Wear down.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wear%20down. Accessed 21 Aug. 2026.

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