Term to describe the effects of time and use on an object or, more frequently, a rented residence. For example, a tenant is not responsible to pay for any damage that represents the reasonable wear and tear to the premises over the course of a lease (although what is considered normal wear and what is extraordinary is usually a topic of dispute.) Reasonable wear might be the discoloration of paint on the walls, slight scratches on a floor, etc. Also referred to as ordinary wear and tear.