tear
tear Lexical Profile
tear Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A drop of clear, salty liquid secreted from glands in a person's eye when they cry or when the eye is irritated.
"A single tear rolled down her cheek as she watched the emotional final scene of the film."
A hole or split in something caused by it having been pulled apart forcefully.
"There was a noticeable tear in the fabric of his vintage jacket, exposing the lining underneath."
North American A brief spell of erratic or energetic behavior; a streak of extraordinary success.
"The hockey team has been on an absolute tear lately, winning ten consecutive games."
• verb
To pull or rip (something) apart or to pieces with force.
"She had to tear the tough wrapping paper to open the tightly sealed package."
To produce tears from the eyes, often due to strong emotion (frequently used with 'up').
"He began to tear up when he heard the beautiful tribute during the graduation ceremony."
To move very quickly, typically in a reckless, uncontrolled, or highly energetic manner.
"The children began to tear down the hallway as soon as the recess bell rang."
Word Nuance & Usage
Tear is a heteronym: when pronounced /tɪər/, it refers to a drop of water from the eye; when pronounced /tɛər/, it means to rip or pull apart.
• Rhymes for tear
Word Origin & Etymology
The word has two distinct origins. The noun for eye liquid comes from Old English 'tēar', of Germanic origin. The verb for ripping comes from Old English 'teran', also of Germanic origin, related to Dutch 'teren' and German 'zehren'.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.