WEAR THIN Definition & Meaning

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wear thin

Become less convincing, acceptable, or popular, as in His excuses are wearing thin . [First half of 1990s] Both usages transfer the thinning of a physical object, such as cloth, to nonmaterial characteristics.
Be weakened or diminished gradually, as in My patience is wearing thin . [Late 1800s]

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In 2023, the Guardian sniped “their shtick wears thin at times.”

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Her prickliness makes her fascinating and multitextured, though that allure quickly wears thin for those who find themselves pulled into her orbit.

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It’s a strong start for a story about how, amid hardship and desperation, compassion can wear thin.

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They filled in the cracks when veteran players slumped, or when the bullpen would wear thin.

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“The patience of our members is wearing thin. They are tired of struggling to survive on low wages that have remained stagnant for years.”

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