wearing
UK: ˈweərɪŋ | US: ˈwerɪŋ
adj. causing fatigue or exhaustion
n. the act of having something on one's body as clothing or decoration
adj. showing signs of wear or use
The word "wearing" derives from the Old English "werian," meaning "to clothe or cover." The root "wear" has retained its core meaning of bearing something on the body (e.g., clothing) or enduring gradual damage (e.g., "wear and tear"). The suffix "-ing" transforms the verb into a present participle or gerund, allowing it to function as an adjective ("a wearing journey") or noun ("the wearing of uniforms"). Over time, the adjective form expanded to describe anything that causes fatigue, metaphorically extending the idea of enduring strain.
The long hike was physically wearing.
She prefers wearing bright colors in summer.
The wearing of masks became mandatory in hospitals.
His jacket showed signs of wearing at the elbows.
Constant noise pollution can be mentally wearing.