Definition of tear

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tear²    (tîr) KEY 

NOUN:

1. 1. A drop of the clear salty liquid that is secreted by the lachrymal gland of the eye to lubricate the surface between the eyeball and eyelid and to wash away irritants.
   2. tears A profusion of this liquid spilling from the eyes and wetting the cheeks, especially as an expression of emotion.
   3. tears The act of weeping: criticism that left me in tears.
2. A drop of a liquid or hardened fluid.

intr.v.
teared, tear·ing, tears

To fill with tears.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English, from Old English tar; see dakru- in Indo-European roots