Phrasal verb
wear off
Meanings
To gradually lose effect or strength until it is mostly gone.
To gradually fade or disappear from a surface because of use, washing, or friction.
Definition
If something wears off, it gradually becomes weaker or disappears.
To wear off means to slowly lose strength, effect, or intensity over time. It is often used for medicine, pain, a smell, or a strong feeling like excitement. The change happens gradually rather than suddenly. After it wears off, the effect is mostly gone.
Examples
- The painkiller will wear off in a few hours.
- My excitement wore off after the long wait at the airport.
- Your perfume will wear off by the end of the day.
- The logo on his T-shirt started to wear off after a few washes.
Common mistake
Learners often say "wear out" when they mean an effect fades; use "wear off" for effects, feelings, and smells that gradually disappear.
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.