1
general::
Phrase(s): the worse for wear
1. Euph. intoxicated. • You were the worse for wear last night. • The three came stumbling in, the worse for wear again. 2. damaged or worn through use. • Eventually, every machine becomes worse for wear, you know. • The truth is it’s the worse for wear; you will just have to get a new one. 3. injured. • Tom fell into the street and he’s much the worse for wear. • Fred had a little accident with his bike and he’s the worse for wear.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
2
general::
Also, the worse for the wear. In poor physical condition owing to long use; also, drunk. For example, This television set is really worse for the wear; we'll have to replace it, or He'd better not drive home; he's definitely the worse for the wear. [c. A.D. 1000] For an antonym, see NONE THE WORSE FOR.
American Heritage Idioms