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Definitions

wear down

VERB
become worn
Synonyms
WEAK
overuse waste wear wear out
VERB
make weary
Synonyms
WEAK
beat defeat drain exhaust fatigue tire weaken
VERB
overcome
Synonyms
WEAK
endure hold up prevail

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He won’t wear down popular and respected Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch right away—he’ll wait.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 6, 2025

As mitochondria naturally wear down over time, protecting them could help older adults to fight infections and stay healthier.

From Science Daily • Oct. 10, 2025

Kirkwood, sixth in the IndyCar Series driver standings last year, held the lead until the eighth lap Sunday, when he pitted to dump his softer alternate tires, which provide grip but wear down quickly.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 13, 2025

It's these "tactics of delay" that often "wear down campaigners", says one activist, Kanak Mani Dixit.

From BBC • Nov. 3, 2024

I wonder if after a while your body starts to wear down when you don’t listen to that fight-or-flight response.

From "Internment" by Samira Ahmed