Top 50 Slang For Wear Tear – Meaning & Usage

Wear and tear is a common issue we all face with our belongings, but did you know there’s a whole array of slang terms to describe this phenomenon? From “beat up” to “showing some love,” our team has curated a list of the most popular and quirky slang expressions for wear and tear. Get ready to upgrade your vocab and impress your friends with these fun and relatable terms!

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1. Raggedy

This term describes something that is old, torn, or in poor condition due to wear and tear. It is often used to describe clothing or objects that have seen better days.

For example, “She wore a raggedy old sweater to the party.”
A person might say, “I need to replace my raggedy shoes, they’re falling apart.”
Another might comment, “The book had raggedy pages and a torn cover.”

2. Beat up

This phrase refers to something that is in a state of disrepair or has been heavily used and shows signs of wear and tear. It can be used to describe both physical objects and people.

For instance, “His car is so beat up, it’s barely running.”
A person might say, “I got into a fight and ended up beat up.”
Another might comment, “The old guitar is beat up, but it still plays beautifully.”

3. Tattered

This term describes something that is torn or worn out, usually due to age or extensive use. It often refers to clothing or fabric that is in a state of disrepair.

For example, “She wore a tattered dress to the costume party.”
A person might say, “The flag was tattered from years of flying in the wind.”
Another might comment, “The book had tattered pages and a torn spine.”

4. Shabby

This word describes something that is in poor condition and looks worn out or neglected. It can be used to describe both physical objects and living spaces.

For instance, “The apartment was shabby and in need of renovation.”
A person might say, “He lived in a shabby old house on the outskirts of town.”
Another might comment, “The furniture in the waiting room was shabby and uncomfortable.”

5. Ratty

This term describes something that is worn out, torn, or in poor condition. It is often used to describe clothing or fabric that is old and has become frayed or threadbare.

For example, “She wore a ratty old sweater to the party.”
A person might say, “The dog chewed up my shoes, now they’re all ratty.”
Another might comment, “The curtains in the old house were ratty and full of holes.”

6. Frayed

This term is used to describe something that is worn out or has threads that are coming apart.

For example, “The cuffs of his jeans were frayed from dragging on the ground.”
A person might say, “The edges of this old book are frayed.”
When discussing an old piece of furniture, someone might say, “The upholstery is frayed and needs to be replaced.”

7. Threadbare

This term describes something that is worn or has become thin from use or age.

For instance, “Her favorite sweater was threadbare from years of wear.”
A person might say, “The carpet in this room is threadbare and needs to be replaced.”
When talking about an old pair of shoes, someone might say, “The soles are completely threadbare.”

8. Dilapidated

This term describes something that is in a state of disrepair or decay, often due to neglect or age.

For example, “The abandoned house was dilapidated and falling apart.”
A person might say, “The old barn on the property is dilapidated and unsafe.”
When discussing a rundown building, someone might say, “The entire neighborhood is filled with dilapidated houses.”

9. Weathered

This term describes something that has been worn or aged by exposure to the elements, such as sun, wind, or rain.

For instance, “The weathered wooden fence had a rustic charm.”
A person might say, “The weathered paint on the exterior of the house gave it a vintage look.”
When discussing an old statue, someone might say, “The weathered stone has a beautiful patina.”

10. Run down

This term describes something that is in poor condition or is in need of repair.

For example, “The run-down apartment building had broken windows and peeling paint.”
A person might say, “The car is so run down that it barely starts.”
When talking about a neglected park, someone might say, “The playground equipment is run down and unsafe.”

11. Battered

This term refers to something that is in a very worn or damaged condition, often as a result of heavy use or abuse.

For example, “After years of use, his old laptop was battered and barely functional.”
A person might describe a car with numerous dents and scratches as “battered.”
In a discussion about furniture, someone might say, “That old armchair is definitely showing signs of being battered.”

12. Used up

This phrase is used to describe something that has been completely worn out or depleted from excessive use.

For instance, “After several years of use, the printer’s ink cartridge was completely used up.”
A person might say, “I feel so used up after a long day of work.”
In a discussion about a worn-out pair of shoes, someone might comment, “Those sneakers are definitely used up.”

13. Shoddy

This term refers to something that is of low quality or poorly constructed, often resulting in a quick deterioration or breakage.

For example, “The shoddy craftsmanship of the furniture led to it falling apart after only a few months.”
A person might describe a cheaply made product as “shoddy.”
In a discussion about a poorly constructed building, someone might say, “The shoddy construction of this house is evident in its numerous issues.”

14. Worn to a frazzle

This phrase is used to describe something that is extremely worn or exhausted, often as a result of excessive use or stress.

For instance, “After pulling an all-nighter, she was worn to a frazzle and in desperate need of sleep.”
A person might say, “I’ve been working non-stop for days, and I feel completely worn to a frazzle.”
In a discussion about a heavily used piece of clothing, someone might comment, “These jeans are worn to a frazzle and have holes everywhere.”

15. Rundown

This term describes something that is in a state of disrepair or deterioration, often due to neglect or age.

For example, “The abandoned house was rundown and in need of significant repairs.”
A person might describe an old car with chipped paint and rusty parts as “rundown.”
In a discussion about a neglected park, someone might comment, “The park used to be beautiful, but now it’s rundown and overgrown.”

16. Crumbling

This term refers to something that is deteriorating or falling apart. It can be used to describe physical objects or situations.

For example, “The old building is crumbling due to years of neglect.”
A person might say, “My relationship is crumbling under the stress.”
In a discussion about infrastructure, someone might mention, “The roads in this city are crumbling and in desperate need of repair.”

17. Falling apart

This slang term is used to describe something that is in a state of disrepair or is deteriorating rapidly.

For instance, “My car is falling apart. I need to get it fixed.”
A person might say, “My life feels like it’s falling apart right now.”
In a conversation about a failing business, someone might comment, “The company is falling apart at the seams.”

18. Worn thin

This term is used to describe something that is becoming thin or weak due to use or age.

For example, “My jeans are worn thin from years of wear.”
A person might say, “My patience is worn thin after dealing with this problem for so long.”
In a discussion about a worn-out mattress, someone might mention, “The mattress is worn thin and no longer provides proper support.”

19. Falling to pieces

This slang term is used to describe something that is deteriorating or experiencing a significant decline.

For instance, “My life is falling to pieces. Everything is going wrong.”
A person might say, “The project is falling to pieces. We need to regroup and come up with a new plan.”
In a conversation about a crumbling relationship, someone might comment, “Their marriage is falling to pieces. They need to seek counseling.”

20. Rugged

This term is used to describe something that is sturdy and able to withstand rough use or conditions.

For example, “These rugged boots are perfect for hiking in rough terrain.”
A person might say, “He has a rugged charm that makes him attractive.”
In a discussion about durable clothing, someone might mention, “I prefer rugged denim jeans that can withstand heavy wear.”

21. Cracked

When something is cracked, it means that it has a visible split or break. This term is often used to describe objects or surfaces that have been damaged.

For example, “I dropped my phone and now the screen is cracked.”
In a discussion about pottery, someone might say, “The vase has a cracked handle.”
A person might complain, “The sidewalk is so cracked, it’s dangerous to walk on.”

22. Frazzled

Frazzled is a term used to describe someone who is extremely tired or mentally drained. It often implies a state of being overwhelmed or stressed.

For instance, “After working a double shift, I feel completely frazzled.”
A student might say, “I stayed up all night studying and now I’m frazzled.”
A parent might exclaim, “Taking care of three kids all day has me feeling frazzled!”

23. Decrepit

Decrepit is an adjective used to describe something that is in a state of disrepair or deterioration. It suggests that the object or place is old and worn-out.

For example, “The abandoned house looked decrepit with its broken windows and crumbling walls.”
A person might say, “My car is so old and decrepit, it’s constantly breaking down.”
A traveler might comment, “The hotel we stayed at was decrepit and in desperate need of renovation.”

24. Worn down

When someone is worn down, it means they are physically or mentally exhausted. This term can be used to describe a person who has been under stress or pressure for an extended period of time.

For instance, “After working back-to-back shifts, I feel completely worn down.”
A student might say, “I’ve been studying for finals all week, and I’m really worn down.”
A caregiver might express, “Taking care of my sick parent has left me feeling worn down.”

25. Shattered

Shattered is a term used to describe something that has been completely broken or destroyed. It often implies a sense of irreparable damage.

For example, “I dropped the glass and it shattered into a thousand pieces.”
A person might say, “The car accident left the windshield shattered.”
A homeowner might exclaim, “A tree fell on my roof during the storm and now it’s shattered!”

26. Used and abused

This phrase is used to describe something that has been used extensively and is showing signs of wear and tear.

For example, “That old car has been used and abused for years.”
A person might say, “My phone is used and abused, but it still works.”
Another might comment, “This jacket has been used and abused, but it’s still my favorite.”

27. Falling apart at the seams

This expression is used to describe something that is in very poor condition and is on the verge of falling apart.

For instance, “The old house is falling apart at the seams.”
A person might say, “My shoes are falling apart at the seams, I need new ones.”
Another might comment, “The company is falling apart at the seams due to mismanagement.”

28. Patched up

This phrase is used to describe something that has been fixed or repaired, often in a makeshift or temporary manner.

For example, “The leaky pipe was patched up with duct tape.”
A person might say, “My jeans have been patched up so many times, they’re practically a patchwork.”
Another might comment, “The old car was patched up enough to get it running again.”

29. Worn out

This term is used to describe something that has been used to the point of being completely worn down and no longer usable.

For instance, “These shoes are worn out, I need to get new ones.”
A person might say, “My phone is worn out, it’s slow and the battery doesn’t last.”
Another might comment, “This couch is worn out, it’s uncomfortable and the springs are shot.”

30. Beaten down

This expression is used to describe something that has been subjected to rough treatment and is now in a state of disrepair.

For example, “The old car has been beaten down by years of off-road driving.”
A person might say, “My laptop has been beaten down, it’s slow and the screen is cracked.”
Another might comment, “The house has been beaten down by years of neglect, it needs a lot of repairs.”

31. Crumbling away

This phrase is used to describe something that is falling apart or deteriorating.

For example, “The old building is crumbling away due to years of neglect.”
A person might say, “My relationship is crumbling away, and I don’t know how to fix it.”
Another example could be, “The fabric of the chair is crumbling away, revealing the stuffing underneath.”

32. Falling to bits

This phrase is used to describe something that is gradually coming apart or breaking into pieces.

For instance, “The old book is falling to bits, with pages coming loose.”
A person might say, “My car is falling to bits, and I can’t afford to get it fixed.”
Another example could be, “The cake was so dry that it started falling to bits as soon as it was cut.”

33. Torn to shreds

This phrase is used to describe something that has been severely damaged or destroyed.

For example, “The document was torn to shreds, making it impossible to read.”
A person might say, “My favorite shirt got caught on something and was torn to shreds.”
Another example could be, “The critics tore the movie to shreds, calling it a complete disaster.”

34. Worn to threads

This phrase is used to describe something that has been used so much that it is now in a very worn-out or frayed condition.

For instance, “The old carpet is worn to threads, with patches of bare floor showing.”
A person might say, “My jeans are worn to threads, and I need to buy a new pair.”
Another example could be, “The book’s pages are so thin and delicate that they are worn to threads from frequent use.”

35. Ripped to pieces

This phrase is used to describe something that has been torn apart or shredded into multiple pieces.

For example, “The letter was ripped to pieces, making it impossible to read.”
A person might say, “The dog got hold of my homework and ripped it to pieces.”
Another example could be, “The tornado ripped the house to pieces, leaving only rubble behind.”

36. Worn to the bone

This phrase is used to describe something that is extremely worn or damaged, often to the point of being unusable. It implies that the item has been used or abused to the point where it cannot be repaired or salvaged.

For example, “After years of use, his favorite pair of sneakers were worn to the bone.”
A person might say, “I’ve been working so hard, I feel like I’m worn to the bone.”
Another example could be, “The old car was worn to the bone and barely running.”

37. Shredded

This term is used to describe something that has been completely torn or destroyed, often referring to clothing or other fabric-based items. It implies that the item has been torn into small pieces or strips.

For instance, “His shirt was shredded after getting caught on a branch.”
A person might say, “I accidentally shredded my jeans while trying to fix them.”
Another example could be, “The document was shredded to ensure it couldn’t be read.”

38. Torn asunder

This phrase is used to describe something that has been completely ripped apart or torn into separate pieces. It implies a violent or forceful tearing apart of an object.

For example, “The tornado tore the house asunder, leaving only debris.”
A person might say, “Their relationship was torn asunder by a series of lies.”
Another example could be, “The explosion tore the building asunder, scattering debris everywhere.”

39. Worn to the ground

This expression is used to describe something that has been heavily used or damaged, often to the point of being worn out or unusable. It implies that the item has been used extensively and is now in poor condition.

For instance, “The old sofa was worn to the ground after years of use.”
A person might say, “I’ve been working non-stop, I feel like I’ve been worn to the ground.”
Another example could be, “The hiking boots were worn to the ground after many long hikes.”

40. Worn to rags

This phrase is used to describe something that is completely worn out or in tatters. It implies that the item has been used or abused to the point where it is no longer usable or presentable.

For example, “Her clothes were worn to rags after years of heavy use.”
A person might say, “I’ve been wearing these shoes for so long, they’re worn to rags.”
Another example could be, “The old book was worn to rags from being read so many times.”

41. Torn up

When something is “torn up,” it means that it has been ripped or damaged. This phrase is often used to describe clothing or other items that are in poor condition.

For example, “My jeans are completely torn up from skateboarding.”
A person might say, “I can’t believe how torn up my old sneakers are.”
When talking about a car, someone might say, “The bumper is torn up from that accident.”

42. Scratched up

When something is “scratched up,” it means that it is covered in scratches. This can refer to surfaces like furniture, cars, or electronic devices.

For instance, “My phone is all scratched up from being in my pocket with my keys.”
A person might say, “I accidentally scratched up the coffee table while moving it.”
When talking about a car, someone might say, “The side of the car is scratched up from parking in tight spaces.”

43. Busted

When something is “busted,” it means that it is broken or damaged. This term is commonly used to describe objects that no longer function properly.

For example, “My laptop is busted and won’t turn on.”
A person might say, “I dropped my phone and now the screen is busted.”
When talking about a car, someone might say, “The engine is busted and needs to be replaced.”

44. Wrecked

When something is “wrecked,” it means that it is completely destroyed or damaged. This term is often used to describe vehicles involved in accidents or objects that have been severely damaged.

For instance, “The car was wrecked in a collision and is beyond repair.”
A person might say, “I accidentally dropped the vase and now it’s completely wrecked.”
When talking about a house, someone might say, “The roof was wrecked during the storm and needs to be replaced.”

45. Worn to bits

When something is “worn to bits,” it means that it is extremely worn out or in poor condition due to heavy use over time. This phrase is often used to describe clothing or other items that have been used extensively.

For example, “These shoes are worn to bits after years of hiking.”
A person might say, “The sofa is worn to bits and needs to be replaced.”
When talking about a book, someone might say, “I’ve read this novel so many times that it’s worn to bits.”

46. Rode hard and put away wet

This phrase is often used to describe something or someone that has been worn out or used excessively without proper maintenance or care. It can refer to physical objects, as well as people or animals.

For example, “That car has been rode hard and put away wet. It’s falling apart.”
In a discussion about an overworked employee, someone might say, “She’s been rode hard and put away wet. She needs a vacation.”
Another example could be, “He looks like he’s been rode hard and put away wet. He needs some rest.”

47. Seen better days

This phrase is used to describe something that is no longer in good condition and has deteriorated over time. It implies that the object or person has experienced better or more favorable days in the past.

For instance, “That old house has definitely seen better days. It’s falling apart.”
In a conversation about a worn-out piece of clothing, someone might say, “This shirt has seen better days. It’s full of holes.”
Another example could be, “I used to be in great shape, but now I’ve seen better days. I need to start working out again.”

48. Junky

This term is often used to describe something that is in a state of disrepair or of low quality. It can refer to physical objects, as well as people or situations.

For example, “That car is a junky. It’s always breaking down.”
In a discussion about a run-down building, someone might say, “That place is a junky. It needs to be torn down.”
Another example could be, “He used to be a great athlete, but now he’s a junky. He can’t even run a mile.”

49. Cracked up

This phrase is used to describe something that is damaged or broken, often as a result of an accident or mishap. It can refer to physical objects, as well as people or their mental state.

For instance, “That vase is cracked up. It’s no longer usable.”
In a conversation about a person who had a car accident, someone might say, “He’s all cracked up after the crash.”
Another example could be, “She used to be so confident, but after that incident, she’s all cracked up.”

50. Mangled

This term is used to describe something that has been severely damaged or disfigured, often as a result of a violent force or accident. It implies that the object or person has undergone significant physical deformation.

For example, “That car was mangled in the collision. It’s beyond repair.”
In a discussion about a badly injured athlete, someone might say, “His leg was mangled in the game.”
Another example could be, “The tornado mangled the entire neighborhood. It’s a devastating sight.”