The term 'AND TEAR WEAR' can be broken down into three crossword solutions: TATTY (5 letters), AGE (3 letters), and USE (3 letters). TATTY is an adjective meaning 'shabby or worn out from much USE'. AGE is a noun meaning 'the length of time that something has existed'. Finally, USE is a verb meaning 'to put into service or apply for a purpose'. Together, these words describe clothing that has been worn for a long period of time and is now shabby and worn out.