Wear

/ˈweə/

/ˈwer/

Definition & Meaning of "wear"

to wear

VERB

to have something such as clothes, shoes, etc. on your body

Transitive: to wear clothing

Example

She decided to wear a beautiful dress to the party.

He wore a suit and tie to the job interview to make a good impression.

1.1

to have a particular style of hair, beard, or mustache

Complex Transitive: to wear hair or facial hair [adj] | to wear hair or facial hair in a specific manner

Example

He likes to wear his beard neatly trimmed.

She usually wears her hair in a ponytail.

to cause damage due to repeated friction or usage

Transitive: to wear sth

Example

The repeated opening and closing of the door had worn the hinge.

The years of scrubbing had worn the kitchen floor tiles.

2.1

to become damaged because of continuous use or friction

Intransitive

Linking Verb: to wear [adj]

Example

Her favorite jeans were wearing along the seams.

Over time, the fabric of the old chair began to wear, revealing the stuffing underneath.

2.2

to create a visible impression, hole, or path through repeated friction or use

Transitive: to wear a hole or path somewhere

Example

The constant rain had worn grooves into the garden path.

The car 's tires had worn deep ruts in the muddy road.

2.3

to remain in good condition, particularly after a long period of usage

Intransitive: to wear in a specific manner

Example

The old family heirloom has worn well over the years and still looks beautiful.

Despite daily use, the leather sofa has worn exceptionally well.

to show a specific expression with one's face

Transitive: to wear an expression

Example

She wore a joyful expression when she received the good news.

She wore a happy smile at the party.

(of ships) to display a specific flag or colors, often indicating their nationality, affiliation, or purpose

Transitive: to wear a specific flag

Example

The ship proudly wore the national flag as it sailed into the harbor.

In international waters, ships often wear their respective maritime flags.

to spend or pass a period of time engaging in a specific activity or pursuit

Transitive: to wear a period of time

Example

They wore the evening away laughter and conversation.

Playing board games helped us wear the rainy afternoon.

to tolerate or accept something, even if one may not entirely approve of it

Transitive: to wear an idea or proposal

Example

She presented a bold idea, but the conservative board members would n't wear it.

The political candidate had unconventional policies, but many voters could n't wear them.

to apply or put a substance or product on one's body

Example

He forgot to wear sunscreen and got sunburned.

I always wear perfume before going out.

Wear

NOUN

a piece of clothing for a particular event or purpose

What is "wear"?

Wear refers to a piece of clothing that is worn for a particular event or purpose. For example, formal wear such as a suit or gown may be worn for a wedding or special event, athletic wear such as running shorts or yoga pants may be worn for exercise or physical activity, and workwear such as a uniform or safety gear may be worn for job-related tasks. The appropriate wear for a given occasion can be influenced by a variety of factors including cultural norms, dress codes, weather, and personal style. The right wear can help someone feel comfortable, confident, and appropriately dressed for any occasion.

the act of having on your person as a covering or adornment

impairment resulting from long use