Wear off
phrasal verb
When something gradually loses its effect or power, or when it eventually disappears or stops.
The initial excitement of starting the new job has begun to wear off.
Often appears as...
- the effect wears off
- the pain wears off
phrasal verb
When the effect of a drug or medicine gradually decreases or stops.
Once the anesthesia wears off, you might feel some pain.
Often appears as...
- the anesthesia wears off
- the sedative wears off
Usage tips
Technical
phrasal verb
When something gradually loses its effect or power, or when it eventually disappears or stops.
The initial excitement of starting the new job has begun to wear off.
Often appears as...
- the effect wears off
- the pain wears off
phrasal verb
When the effect of a drug or medicine gradually decreases or stops.
Once the anesthesia wears off, you might feel some pain.
Often appears as...
- the anesthesia wears off
- the sedative wears off
Usage tips
Technical
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Temporary State
Understand that 'wear off' implies a change over time, not an immediate stop.
The charm of the old house will wear off once you notice the creaky floors.
Pro Tip 2/3Gradual Loss
It suggests a slow reduction, often unnoticed until much of the effect is gone.
The scent of perfume will wear off throughout the day.
Pro Tip 3/3Metaphorical Use
Can be used metaphorically to refer to emotions or abstract concepts.
The aura of mystery around the celebrity wore off over time.
Pro Tip 1/3Temporary State
Understand that 'wear off' implies a change over time, not an immediate stop.
The charm of the old house will wear off once you notice the creaky floors.
Pro Tip 2/3Gradual Loss
It suggests a slow reduction, often unnoticed until much of the effect is gone.
The scent of perfume will wear off throughout the day.
Pro Tip 3/3Metaphorical Use
Can be used metaphorically to refer to emotions or abstract concepts.
The aura of mystery around the celebrity wore off over time.
Pro Tip 1/3Temporary State
Understand that 'wear off' implies a change over time, not an immediate stop.
The charm of the old house will wear off once you notice the creaky floors.
Pro Tip 2/3Gradual Loss
It suggests a slow reduction, often unnoticed until much of the effect is gone.
The scent of perfume will wear off throughout the day.
Pro Tip 3/3Metaphorical Use
Can be used metaphorically to refer to emotions or abstract concepts.
The aura of mystery around the celebrity wore off over time.
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