Pronunciation: [wˈe͡əz ɐwˈe͡ɪ] (IPA) 
The word "wears away" is spelled as /wɛrz əˈweɪ/. This means that "wears" is pronounced as "weh-rz" with a short "e" sound, followed by the "r" sound and the "z" sound. The "away" part is pronounced as "ə-wey" with a schwa sound followed by a long "a" sound and a soft "y" sound. This phrase refers to the gradual fading or erosion of something over time, such as the paint on a wall or the tread on a tire.
"Wears away" is a phrasal verb that refers to the gradual reduction or degradation of something over time, typically due to continuous use, erosion, or friction. It implies the process of wearing down or diminishing the substance, quality, or physical appearance of an object or material. This term can be used both in a literal and metaphorical sense.
In a literal sense, "wears away" often describes the progressive loss of material from the surface of an object due to repetitive contact, friction, or exposure to external elements. For instance, the enamel on teeth might wear away over time as a result of poor dental hygiene or grinding, or the tread on car tires may wear away with excessive use. Similarly, erosion caused by naturally occurring forces like wind, water, or chemical reactions can cause rocks or coastlines to wear away gradually.
Metaphorically, the term "wears away" can be used to depict the gradual weakening or fading of intangible elements, such as emotions, mental capacities, or relationships. For example, feelings of love or attraction between individuals might wear away if not nurtured or maintained. Similarly, stress, anxiety, or grief can wear away a person's psychological well-being over time. In the context of relationships, continuous conflicts or neglect can cause the bond between people to wear away, leading to a deterioration in the connection they once had.
Overall, "wears away" signifies the progressive erosion, deterioration, or diminishment of something's physical or abstract characteristics due to sustained use, friction, decay, or neglect.
The word "wears away" is a phrase formed by combining the verb "wear" and the adverb "away".
The verb "wear" can be traced back to Old English, where it was spelled "werian" and meant "to carry" or "to have on one's person". Over time, it evolved to refer specifically to clothing or items that are worn on the body. It ultimately derives from the Proto-Germanic word "wēraz".
The adverb "away" comes from Middle English and is derived from the Old English word "onweg". It denotes the direction meaning "from a particular place or position" or "to another or separate place".
Together, "wears away" generally means the gradual erosion or diminishment of something due to continuous use or friction.
