Wear (disambiguation) facts for kids

Wear is a word with a few different meanings! It can describe how things get old, a river in England, a way to sail a ship, or even the clothes you put on. Let's explore what 'wear' can mean.

What Does 'Wear' Mean?

The word 'wear' is used in many ways. It can be about things getting used up over time. It can also be the name of a place, like a river. Sometimes, it describes an action, like putting on clothes. It's important to look at the words around 'wear' to understand its meaning.

Wear and Tear: When Things Get Worn Out

When we talk about "wear and tear," we mean how things slowly break down or get damaged from being used. This is also called erosion. Imagine your favorite pair of shoes. After a lot of running and playing, the soles might get thin. That's because of wear.

This kind of wear happens when one surface rubs against another. It can also happen when tiny bits of material break off. For example, a river can wear away rocks over many years. This process shapes the land. It's a natural way that things change over time.

The River Wear: A Journey Through England

The River Wear is a real river in the northeast of England. It starts in the Pennine hills. From there, it flows through beautiful countryside. The river passes by historic towns and cities. These include Durham and Sunderland.

The River Wear is important for the people who live nearby. It has been used for transport and trade for hundreds of years. People also enjoy fishing and boating on the river. It finally flows into the North Sea.

Sailing: How Ships 'Wear'

In sailing, "wear" is a special term. It means turning a ship away from the wind. This is usually done by turning the ship's stern (the back) through the wind. This is different from a "jibe," which is a similar turn. However, "wearing" is often used for tall ships or very large boats.

When a ship "wears," it changes direction smoothly. This maneuver helps sailors control the ship in different wind conditions. It's an important skill for anyone sailing a big ship.

What We Wear: Clothes and More

Perhaps the most common meaning of "wear" is to have something on your body. This usually refers to clothing. For example, you "wear" a T-shirt or a hat. You might also "wear" glasses to help you see.

But it's not just clothes! You can "wear" a smile on your face. Or you can "wear" a serious expression. This meaning of "wear" is about having something on your person. It can be something you put on or a way you look.