Definition of Tear
Tear
tear


Definition/Meaning
(verb)
to pull something apart or separate it into pieces using some force, or to remove part of something by doing this;

e.g. He started to tear the bread into pieces and pass it to the people around the table. She decided to tear the page from the diary so that it wouldn't be found.

(verb)
to pierce something with a sharp object and pull at it, causing it to become damaged or injured;

e.g. The thorns on the bush are sharp enough to tear at your skin and make you bleed.

(verb)
to disrupt something and figuratively divide it by exerting opposing forces/influences on it;

e.g. This argument will tear the community apart, since the people are sharply divided based on which side they support.

(verb)
(informal) to move very forcefully and quickly, often due to excitement and/or recklessness;

e.g. The children started to tear downstairs when they heard their grandparents at the door.

(noun)
an instance of damage, such as a split or a hole, caused by forcibly pulling something apart;

e.g. There was a tear in the fabric from when he grabbed it.

(noun)
a drop of the clear, salty fluid produced in the glands of one's eyes to moisten the eyes and sooth irritation, as well as when crying;

e.g. She wiped a tear off her cheek and tried to look brave.

(noun)
the action or state of crying (used as "tears");

e.g. I was in tears when I heard the news, because it made me feel very sad.

(verb)
to become filled with clear, salty fluid (tears), describing the eyes;

e.g. Your eyes might start to tear when you start cutting onions.



Translate this Word

Select a language from the dropdown and click "Translate Now" to see this word in your preferred language.




Similar Words



Opposite Words



Related Words


Comments



English Words

 

WORD OF THE DAY