Definition

1. Transitive Verb:
   • To last longer than something else; to be more durable: To endure or remain usable for a greater period of time when compared to another item.
   • To wear out completely; to exhaust through use or strain: To cause something to become worn, used up, or depleted; to tire someone out completely.

Examples of Usage

• Verb (Last longer):

  • These high-quality boots are designed to outwear any cheaper pair.
  • The new synthetic fabric is engineered to outwear traditional cotton.

• Verb (Exhaust or wear out):

  • The constant friction will eventually outwear the surface of the machine part.
  • The relentless schedule threatened to outwear even the most dedicated volunteers.

Advanced Usage

• In a competitive or comparative context: Often used to state superiority in durability.
  • Our product is guaranteed to outwear the competition.
• In a figurative sense for endurance: Can describe surpassing in a non-physical contest, like patience or an argument.
  • Her optimism seemed to outwear all the setbacks.

Variants and Related Words

• Outwore: Simple past tense.
  • The champion outwore all challengers in the grueling tournament.
• Outworn: Past participle. Also used as an adjective meaning "no longer usable or fashionable."
  • He had outworn his welcome. (Adjective use, meaning he stayed too long and was no longer welcome.)
  • The tires were completely outworn. (Adjective use, meaning worn out.)

Synonyms

• Outlast: To last longer than.
• Survive: To remain functional or in existence longer.
• Wear out: To make or become unusable through use.
• Exhaust: To drain of strength or energy.

Phrasal Verbs

(This word does not commonly form distinct phrasal verbs. Its meanings are contained within the single verb form.)

Related Idioms

• To outwear one's usefulness: To remain in a role or position longer than one is effectively contributing.
  • The old policy had long outworn its usefulness and needed replacement.
• Outworn ideas: Ideas that are no longer relevant or acceptable.
  • The conference aimed to challenge outworn ideas in the field.

Verb

1. exhaust or get tired through overuse or great strain or stress
   • We wore ourselves out on this hike
2. last longer than others
   • This material outwears all others