WordGarden.io
Back to search

outwear

A1
verb

Pronunciation

UK

  • /aʊtwˈeə/

US

  • /aʊtwˈɛr/

Description

When one thing outwears another, it lasts longer and stays useful for more time. A well-made winter coat might outwear a cheaper one by several years.

This word is mainly used for durability. If you say, "These solid boots will outwear the cheap pair," you mean the solid boots will stay in good condition longer. You may also meet the related form "outworn," especially in phrases like "outworn ideas," where it suggests something has become old, tired, or no longer useful.

Examples

  1. 1

    Work gear

    These work boots should outwear any sneakers you bring to the site.

  2. 2

    Clothing quality

    A plain wool coat can outwear several cheaper fashion jackets.

  3. 3

    Overused slogan

    By the end of the campaign, the slogan had outworn its charm.

    • Meaning

      outworn

      used for so long that it no longer feels fresh or useful

Forms and spellings

5 forms open this card.

Main spelling

  • outwearverb

Forms

  • outwornpast participleverb
  • outwearing-ing formverb
  • outwearsverb
  • outworepast tenseverb