WEAR Meaning and
Definition
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Wear, as a verb, refers to the act of having or possessing something on one's body, typically garments or accessories, as a form of covering or decor. It involves the putting on and carrying of clothing or an item for aesthetic, practical, or protective purposes. "Wear" also encompasses the duration during which someone keeps such items on their body.
Additionally, "wear" can denote the gradual damage, erosion, or alteration that occurs over time on an object's surface due to consistent use or exposure. This usage is commonly associated with wear and tear, where prolonged use causes an object to deteriorate or lose its original quality, usually through friction, stress, or chemical reactions.
The term "wear" is not solely reserved for clothing and objects worn on the body. It can also extend to non-wearable items, such as tires, that experience depreciation or erosion due to their interaction with a surface. In these cases, wear can manifest as tread loss, damage, or structural weakening.
As a noun, "wear" typically refers to the distinctive appearance, damage, or signs of use that an object displays after being worn over time. It may also describe a particular type of clothing, of a specific style, design, or era.
Overall, whether as a verb or noun, "wear" encompasses the act of donning and carrying garments or accessories, the gradual degradation or alteration of objects, and the visible signs of usage and aging.
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• To last; to endure or hold out; to waste or diminish by use or time; to be wasted or impaired, as by use; to pass or be consumed by slow degrees.
• Injury or decay by use; the act of lasting long.
• To carry or bear upon the person, as an article of clothing, arms, or any ornament; to have or exhibit an appearance of; to bear.
• Used in the phrase, "to wear a ship,"-that is, to turn the ship before the wind.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for WEAR *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for WEAR
Etymology of WEAR
The word "wear" can be traced back to the Old English word "werian", which means "to carry, bear, or endure". It has Germanic roots and is related to the Old High German word "werien" and the Old Norse word "verja". Over time, the word "werian" evolved into "wear" in Middle English, retaining the original meaning of carrying or bearing something. The word has since expanded its meaning to encompass the act of having something on one's body, typically referring to clothing or accessories.
Idioms with the word WEAR
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If the shoe fits(, wear it).
The idiom "If the shoe fits, wear it" means that if someone's behavior or actions are being criticized or described in a negative way and those descriptions accurately apply to them, then they should accept and acknowledge it. It implies that if someone feels offended or defensive when a particular situation or criticism is mentioned, it may be because they are guilty or involved in it.
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wear through
The idiom "wear through" typically refers to the process of continuous use or friction causing something to gradually fade, weaken, or become eroded. It can also imply that patience, enthusiasm, or resources have been exhausted due to prolonged or excessive demands or stress.
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wear out sth
The idiom "wear out something" means to use or continue using something until it becomes broken, damaged, or no longer usable due to excessive use or overuse. It can also refer to causing something to become exhausted, depleted, or ineffective due to extensive or continuous use.
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wear sth away
The idiom "wear something away" refers to the gradual erosion, disappearance, or reduction of something due to constant or persistent use, friction, or continuous action. It suggests that a certain object or substance slowly diminishes or fades away over time.
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wear sackcloth and ashes
The idiom "wear sackcloth and ashes" refers to a symbolic act of extreme remorse or repentance. It is derived from the ancient practice of wearing coarse, uncomfortable sackcloth and ashes as a sign of mourning or contrition. Figuratively, this idiom signifies a deep expression of regret or sorrow for one's actions or mistakes.
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wear sb out
The idiom "wear sb out" means to exhaust or tire someone physically, mentally, or emotionally through prolonged activity, exertion, or demands. It implies draining someone's energy or vitality completely.
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wear fingers to the bone
The idiom "wear fingers to the bone" means to work extremely hard and diligently, often to the point of physical exhaustion, in order to accomplish a task or reach a goal. It implies that one is putting in great effort and working tirelessly, using their hands or fingers extensively.
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wear off, out
The idiom "wear off, out" refers to the gradual loss or fading away of an effect or the diminishing of someone's energy, interest, or enthusiasm over time. It conveys the idea of something becoming less effective, noticeable, or powerful as time passes.
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wear away
The definition of the idiom "wear away" is to diminish or gradually disappear through friction or erosion. It implies the gradual wearing down or weakening of something over time. For example, if the paint on a wall starts to wear away, it means it is gradually fading or peeling off.
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wear (up)on sth
The idiom "wear (up)on sth" means that something is making one gradually feel tired, irritated, or burdened over time. It is often used to describe the accumulating weight or strain of a particular situation or task.
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wear sth (up)on sth
The idiom "wear something (up)on something" typically means to prominently display or exhibit a particular item or characteristic. It can refer to physically wearing an object on a certain body part, or figuratively displaying or showcasing a quality, skill, or attribute on a specific occasion or in a particular context.
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if the cap fits, wear it
The idiom "if the cap fits, wear it" means that if something being said applies to someone, they should accept it or acknowledge it. It suggests that if a description, criticism, or accusation accurately fits a person, they should not deny or avoid it, but rather accept it as true.
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all the worse for wear
The idiom "all the worse for wear" means that something or someone is in a poor or deteriorated condition due to wear, damage, or use over time. It indicates that the person or thing has experienced a decline in quality, appearance, or functionality.
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wear down
The idiom "wear down" typically refers to the gradual reduction or depletion of something over time, or the act of gradually eroding or weakening something through constant use, pressure, or friction. It can also describe the process of becoming physically or mentally exhausted or fatigued due to prolonged activity or stress.
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wear (one) to a frazzle
The idiom "wear (one) to a frazzle" means to exhaust or fatigue someone to the point of extreme tiredness or mental and physical strain.
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wear heart on sleeve
The idiom "wear one's heart on one's sleeve" means to openly display or show one's emotions, thoughts, or feelings without trying to hide them. Someone who wears their heart on their sleeve is very transparent and easily expresses their emotions, often to the point of vulnerability.
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wear on sleeve
The idiom "wear on sleeve" means to openly display or express one's feelings, emotions, or beliefs without hiding them. It refers to someone who is transparent and does not shy away from showing their true thoughts and emotions to others.
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wear out welcome
The idiom "wear out welcome" means to stay or visit for so long that one's presence becomes burdensome or unwelcome to others. It indicates that someone has overstayed their welcome or been present for an excessive amount of time, causing annoyance or discomfort to those around them.
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wear away at
The idiom "wear away at" means to gradually erode or develop a negative impact on something or someone over time, often through repeated actions or influences. It refers to the process of slowly causing damage, wearing down resistance, or diminishing the strength or effectiveness of something.
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wear on (for a period of time)
The idiom "wear on (for a period of time)" means to continue or persist over a certain duration. It often implies that the passage of time can be burdensome or exhausting.
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wear the pants in the house
The idiom "wear the pants in the house" refers to a person, typically a woman, who holds the dominant position or authority within a household or relationship. It implies that this person makes the important decisions and has control or influence over others, particularly their significant other or family members.
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wear one's heart on one's sleeve
The idiom "wear one's heart on one's sleeve" means to openly display or express true emotions, feelings, or intentions for everyone to see. It refers to someone who does not hide their emotions and is transparent about their innermost thoughts and feelings.
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be all the worse for wear
The idiom "be all the worse for wear" means to be in a more damaged, worn-out, or deteriorated condition than before. It suggests that something or someone has suffered significant harm, adverse effects, or wear and tear, resulting in a decreased quality or weakened state.
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wear several hats
The idiom "wear several hats" means to take on multiple roles or responsibilities simultaneously, often referring to someone who performs various tasks or possesses diverse skills in different areas.
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wear to a frazzle
The idiom "wear to a frazzle" means to exhaust or fatigue someone mentally or physically through excessive activity, stress, or overwork. It suggests that a person has been worn down to a point of extreme tiredness, weariness, or irritability.
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wear (one's particular profession's) hat
The idiom "wear (one's particular profession's) hat" means to adopt or assume the mindset, skills, or attitude of a specific profession or role. It implies that someone is representing or embodying their professional expertise and approaching a situation from that perspective.
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wear and tear
The idiom "wear and tear" refers to the gradual damage, deterioration, or loss caused by regular use, aging, or habitual friction over time. It describes the natural effects of usage on objects or even the human body, resulting in diminished quality or functionality.
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wear the britches
The idiom "wear the britches" refers to being in control or having the dominant role in a situation. It implies being the person who makes the decisions, holds the authority, or has the power. It is often used in reference to someone who is confident and takes charge.
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It is better to wear out than to rust out.
The idiom "It is better to wear out than to rust out" means that it is preferable to live life to the fullest, exerting effort and energy, rather than becoming stagnant and unproductive due to lack of activity or purpose. It emphasizes the importance of staying active and engaged in order to lead a fulfilling life rather than allowing oneself to deteriorate mentally or physically.
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be the worse for wear
The idiom "be the worse for wear" means to be in a bad or deteriorated condition, often as a result of physical or mental exhaustion, damage, or misuse.
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wear the horns
The idiom "wear the horns" is a colloquial expression that refers to a person being cuckolded, meaning their romantic partner is being unfaithful to them. It originates from the image of a cuckold wearing horns, which historically symbolized a husband being humiliated or betrayed by his wife's infidelity.
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wear (oneself) to a shadow
The idiom "wear (oneself) to a shadow" is an expression that means to exhaust oneself physically or mentally to the point of extreme fatigue or wasting away. It implies that someone has pushed themselves to their limits, both physically and mentally, resulting in extreme exhaustion or depletion.
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wear yourself to a frazzle
The idiom "wear yourself to a frazzle" means to exhaust or tire oneself to the point of extreme physical or mental fatigue. It implies overexertion, pushing oneself too hard without giving enough time for rest or relaxation.
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wear (up)on sm
The idiomatic phrase "wear (up)on someone" refers to the act of gradually causing irritation, annoyance, or mental stress to a person over a period of time. It suggests that something, such as a situation, behavior, or person, is gradually becoming more bothersome or tiresome for the individual concerned.
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the worse for wear
The idiom "the worse for wear" is used to describe something or someone who is in a poor or damaged condition, typically due to rough treatment or use over time. It implies that the item or person has experienced wear and tear, leading to physical or mental fatigue, deterioration, and possibly looking worse than before.
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wear two hats
The idiom "wear two hats" means to assume or fulfill two distinct roles or responsibilities simultaneously. It refers to the ability or need to juggle different tasks, positions, or duties simultaneously.
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wear sth on your sleeve
The idiom "wear something on your sleeve" means to openly and proudly display or show one's true feelings, emotions, or opinions, without trying to hide or disguise them. It refers to being transparent and honest about one's thoughts or emotions rather than keeping them hidden.
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if the shoe fits (wear it), at if the cap fits, wear it
The idiom "if the shoe fits (wear it)" and its variation "if the cap fits, wear it" both refer to accepting or acknowledging a statement or criticism if it applies to oneself. It implies that if someone suggests or implies something about you, and it accurately describes you or your situation, then you should accept it rather than getting defensive or denying it.
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I don't want to wear out my welcome
The idiom "I don't want to wear out my welcome" means that someone does not want to overstay their visit or presence in a particular place or situation. It implies that the person is conscious and respectful of not overstaying their welcome or becoming an inconvenience to others.
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wear thin
The idiom "wear thin" means that a situation or someone's patience, tolerance, or interest is diminishing or becoming less effective or convincing over time.
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wear rose-colored glasses
The idiom "wear rose-colored glasses" means to have an excessively optimistic or idealistic view of something or someone, often resulting in ignoring or disregarding negative aspects or reality. It refers to seeing things in a positive light regardless of their true nature or circumstances.
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wear off )
The idiom "wear off" means to gradually diminish or disappear, especially in regards to the effects or intensity of something. It implies that a temporary state is declining or losing its impact over time.
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wear more than one hat
The idiom "wear more than one hat" means to have multiple roles or responsibilities in a given situation or context. It refers to the ability to perform various tasks or functions beyond one's primary job or role.
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wear your heart on your sleeve
The idiom "wear your heart on your sleeve" means to openly or visibly display one's emotions or feelings, rather than keeping them hidden. It implies that a person's emotions are readily apparent and easily noticed by others, without any effort to conceal or disguise them.
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wear sm down
The idiom "wear someone down" means to gradually exhaust someone physically, mentally, or emotionally through persistent requests, demands, or pressure. It implies that the person is gradually losing their resistance or energy due to constant persuasion or harassment.
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if the hat fits(, wear it)
The phrase "if the hat fits, wear it" is an idiomatic expression that suggests if a statement or description applies to someone, they should accept it or acknowledge it as true. It implies that if a person feels targeted or offended by something said about them, it may be because there is some truth in it.
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none the worse for wear
The idiom "none the worse for wear" means that despite experiencing some kind of challenging or difficult situation, a person or thing has emerged unharmed or undamaged. It implies that no negative effects or consequences have been suffered.
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wear too many hats
The idiom "wear too many hats" refers to a situation where a person is taking on multiple roles or responsibilities simultaneously, often to the point where it becomes overwhelming or difficult to manage effectively. It implies that the individual is juggling a lot of diverse tasks or obligations beyond what is reasonable or feasible.
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wear (oneself) to a frazzle
The idiom "wear (oneself) to a frazzle" means to exhaust or tire oneself physically, mentally, or emotionally to the point of extreme fatigue or burnout.
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wear sm to a frazzle
The idiom "wear someone to a frazzle" means to exhaust or tire someone out completely. It implies that the person has been drained of their energy, both physically and mentally, to the point of extreme fatigue or burnout.
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wear sth down
The idiom "wear something down" refers to the act of gradually causing something to become worn or damaged due to continuous use or friction. It can also denote the process of persistently weakening or eroding something over time through consistent efforts or actions.
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wear the cap and bells
The idiom "wear the cap and bells" means to act foolishly or to be the clown or fool in a situation. It refers to wearing a jester's cap and bells, which were traditionally worn by court jesters in medieval times to entertain people with their playful and often silly behavior.
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wear someone to a frazzle
The idiom "wear someone to a frazzle" means to exhaust or tire someone to the point of extreme fatigue or mental strain.
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wear sb to a frazzle
The idiom "wear sb to a frazzle" means to exhaust or tire someone out completely, usually by causing them to work too hard or by constantly demanding their attention or presence. It suggests that the person has been pushed to the point of physical or mental exhaustion, leaving them worn out or frazzled.
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wear sm out
The idiom "wear someone out" means to exhaust or tire someone physically or mentally through excessive activity, demands, or work, causing them to become fatigued or worn down.
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wear the trousers
The idiom "wear the trousers" means to be in control or have the dominant role in a relationship, typically referring to a woman who has authority or control over her partner. It denotes someone who makes decisions and holds power within a partnership or dynamic.
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worse for wear
The idiom "worse for wear" is used to describe something or someone that is in a deteriorated or damaged condition, typically as a result of wear and tear or rough treatment. It implies that whatever is being referred to is not in its original or optimal state and may appear worn, exhausted, or even disheveled.
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wear out one's welcome
The idiom "wear out one's welcome" means to stay in a place or overstay one's visit for such a long time that one becomes unwelcome or annoying to others.
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wear on sm
The idiom "wear on someone" means to have a persistent or gradual negative effect on a person's emotions, patience, or overall well-being over time. It implies that something, such as a situation, behavior, or person, becomes increasingly bothersome or irritating, eventually causing frustration or exhaustion.
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wear sth off (of) sth
The idiom "wear sth off (of) sth" typically refers to the process of gradually removing or causing something to peel or come off another surface over time. It implies the gradual erosion or detachment of one substance from another.
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wear the pants
The idiom "wear the pants" generally refers to a person, usually a woman, who holds the dominant position or exerts control in a relationship, family, or situation. It implies having authority and making decisions.
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wear the pants, at wear the trousers
The idiom "wear the pants" or "wear the trousers" is an expression used to describe someone, typically a woman, who is dominant, controlling, or authoritative in a relationship or household. It suggests that this person holds the power and makes the important decisions. The phrase originates from the traditional notion that the person who wore pants or trousers in a household had authority and power, as it was historically associated with men.
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wear and tear (on sth)
The idiom "wear and tear (on sth)" refers to the gradual damage or deterioration that occurs as a result of regular use or the passing of time. It describes the normal effects of usage on an object, resulting in its eventual degradation or reduced quality.
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wear (one's) fingers to the bone
The idiom "wear (one's) fingers to the bone" means to work extremely hard or tirelessly. It implies putting in a lot of physical effort, often resulting in exhaustion or soreness, in order to complete a task or achieve a goal.
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wear out your/its welcome
To "wear out your/its welcome" means to stay or remain somewhere for an excessive or inconvenient amount of time, causing annoyance, discomfort, or a loss of initial enthusiasm from the host or others around. It implies that one's presence or actions have become tiresome, unwelcome, or outstayed their initial positive reception.
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wear another hat
The idiom "wear another hat" means to take on a different role or assume different responsibilities than usual, often in addition to one's primary duties or job. It implies adapting or shifting one's focus and skill set to fulfill various roles or tasks.
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wear the britches (in the family)
The idiom "wear the britches (in the family)" is an old-fashioned expression that refers to the person who holds the dominant or controlling position within a family or household. The phrase implies that this individual, typically a male, possesses authority and decision-making power over others. It suggests the idea of being in charge or having a certain level of superiority within the family structure.
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wear sth out
The idiom "wear something out" means to use or exhaust something to the point of it becoming worn out, no longer effective, or too tired to function properly. It can also refer to using up someone's energy or patience.
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wear out
The idiom "wear out" means to become exhausted, tired, or fatigued, usually from physical or mental exertion. It can also refer to an object or material that has become damaged or unusable due to excessive use or age.
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wear on
The idiom "wear on" means the passage of time, particularly when it feels slow or becomes burdensome. It can also refer to something gradually becoming more tiring, tedious, or irritating over time.
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put wear on
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wear the bull's feather
The idiom "wear the bull's feather" refers to being in a position of authority or power, often accompanied by a sense of arrogance or entitlement. It implies flaunting one's status or position in a showy or pretentious way.
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wear, put on, etc. sackcloth and ashes
The idiom "wear, put on, etc. sackcloth and ashes" typically means to show extreme remorse or contrition, often in a public or dramatic way. It comes from the biblical practice of wearing sackcloth, a coarse fabric, and putting ashes on one's head as a sign of mourning or repentance.
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(pull, wear, etc.) a long face
To "pull/wear/etc. a long face" means to have a sad, disappointed, or gloomy expression on one's face.
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wear the green willow
To "wear the green willow" is an expression that refers to mourning the loss of a loved one. It historically refers to the act of wearing a garland or branch of green willow leaves as a sign of grief and mourning for someone who has passed away.
Similar spelling words for WEAR
Conjugate verb Wear
CONDITIONAL PERFECT
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CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE
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CONDITIONAL PRESENT
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CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE
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FUTURE
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FUTURE CONTINUOUS
I
will be wearing
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FUTURE PERFECT
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will have worn
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FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS
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will have been wearing
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will have been wearing
IMPERATIVE
you
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let´s wear
to wear
PAST CONTINUOUS
I
was wearing
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he/she/it
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were wearing
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PAST PARTICIPLE
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PAST PERFECT
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had worn
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PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS
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had been wearing
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PRESENT
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PRESENT CONTINUOUS
I
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PRESENT PARTICIPLE
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PRESENT PERFECT
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PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS
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PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE
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SIMPLE PAST
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