Wear Down (Verb)
Meaning 1
Deteriorate through use or stress; "The constant friction wore out the cloth".
Classification
Verbs of size, temperature change, intensifying, etc..
Examples
- The politician's reputation began to wear down after multiple scandals surfaced.
- Years of running daily had started to wear down the soles of her shoes.
- Her patience began to wear down as the flight kept getting delayed.
- Continued conflict and arguments slowly started to wear down their once-strong relationship.
- The harsh winter storms wore down the stone walls of the ancient castle.
Synonyms
Hypernyms
Hyponyms
Meaning 2
Exhaust or get tired through overuse or great strain or stress; "We wore ourselves out on this hike".
Classification
Verbs of grooming, dressing and bodily care.
Examples
- The constant lack of sleep began to wear her down, making everyday tasks a chore.
- Months of stress at work finally started to wear him down, and he needed a break.
- Caring for her ailing mother day and night was starting to wear her down.
- Training for a marathon can wear you down both mentally and physically if you're not careful.
- The extended period of overwork was bound to wear down even the most dedicated employee.