Causes Tearing can be defined as anything that causes the eyes to tear up. This can be due to a variety of reasons, such as allergies, wind, or even emotional distress. The term 'BLEARS' is a six-letter word which is used to describe this phenomenon. It is derived from the Old English word 'blēran, ' which means 'to weep.' Therefore, BLEARS can be used to describe the act of tearing up due to any of the aforementioned causes.