english
1
general::
Phrase(s): tear at someone or something to rip at someone or something; to try to tear someone or something up. • The badger tore at me, but I dodged it and ran away fast. • Timmy tore at the package, struggling to get the paper off.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
2
general::
1. Pull at or attack violently, as in Jane eagerly tore at the wrapping paper, or The dog tore at the meat. [Mid-1800s] 2. Distress, as in Their plight tore at his heart.
American Heritage Idioms