Wear

Definition

Wear refers to the act of having clothing or accessories on one's body (verb) or the damage or deterioration caused by use or exposure (noun).

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /wɛr/
• Respelling: WAIR

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /weə/
• Respelling: WAIR

Etymology

The word "wear" originates from Old English "werian," meaning "to clothe or cover," which comes from Proto-Germanic "*wazjaną." It is related to Old High German "werian" (to defend or clothe) and has been used in English since before the 12th century.

Derivatives

• Wearable (adjective)
• Worn (verb, past participle)
• Wearer (noun)
• Wearability (noun)
• Overwear (noun/verb)

Synonyms

• Clothe
• Don
• Adorn

Antonyms

• Remove
• Shed
• Discard

Usage

The verb "wear" is commonly used to describe the act of putting on or having clothing or accessories. For example: "She wore a red dress to the party." As a noun, it refers to damage caused over time, e.g., "The car tires showed significant wear after the long journey."

Related Terms

• Garment: A piece of clothing.
• Erosion: Gradual deterioration caused by external forces.
• Fashion: Styles of clothing and accessories.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To have clothing, accessories, or equipment on one's body: Refers to dressing or adorning oneself.
  • Example: "He wore a hat to shield himself from the sun."
• To gradually erode or damage something through use or exposure: Describes the process of wearing down materials or objects.
  • Example: "The waves wore away the edges of the rocks."

Noun

• The damage or deterioration caused by continuous use: Refers to wear and tear on objects or materials.
  • Example: "The shoes showed signs of wear after years of use."
• Clothing suitable for a specific purpose: Refers to garments or accessories.
  • Example: "The store sells formal wear for special occasions."