wear away
B2 neutral separable both
In simple words
To slowly damage or remove something by rubbing or using it a lot over time.
Literal meaning: To wear something until it disappears — directly describes the process of physical erosion.
Meanings
1 B2 neutral
To gradually remove or destroy a physical surface through constant friction or exposure.
"Centuries of wind and rain had worn away the letters on the gravestone."
Grammar: separable
2 B2
idiomatic
neutral
To gradually reduce or diminish something abstract, such as confidence, patience, or memory.
"Years of criticism had slowly worn away her self-confidence."
Grammar: separable
Usage notes
Used literally for physical erosion (e.g., rock, stone, fabric) and figuratively for the gradual weakening of resolve, memory, or emotion. Common across all English varieties.
Commonly used with
rock stone path inscription paint resistance patience memory
Forms
Base
wear away
I/you/we/they
3rd person
wears away
he/she/it
Past simple
wore away
yesterday
Past participle
worn away
have + pp
-ing form
wearing away
continuous
Understand "wear away" better
Try:
Real video examples
Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.
Want to master this phrasal verb?
Practice "wear away" on Looplines