Wear down

Pronunciation: /ˈwɛɹ ˈdaʊn/

Wear down (verb)

  1. To make someone or something less strong or effective over time, usually because of repeated stress or effort.
  2. To make a surface thinner or smoother by rubbing or friction over a long period.
  3. To make a person feel very tired or less able to continue, often after long pressure or hard work.

Examples

  • Stress can slowly weaken your focus.
  • Time slowly weakens old friendships.