teary

adjective

ˈtir-ē How to pronounce teary (audio)
tearier; teariest
Synonyms of tearynext
1
a
: wet or stained with tears : tearful
teary eyes
b
: consisting of tears or drops resembling tears
2
: causing tears : pathetic
a teary story

Synonyms of teary

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Examples of teary in a Sentence

There were many teary eyes among those in the audience. He made a teary farewell to the fans.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Rob Grabowski/Invision/AP Cullen would attend conventions around the country to meet with fans from multiple generations, often getting teary. — Christa Swanson, CBS News, 28 Aug. 2026 Cullen would attend conventions around the country to meet with fans from multiple generations, often getting teary. — Mark Kennedy, Chicago Tribune, 27 Aug. 2026 Rojas, who spoke through reddened, teary eyes after the game, knows the family well. — Liana Handler follow, Los Angeles Times, 6 July 2026 Lizzo, 38, got the chance to meet Hill, 51, at the ceremony and spoke to Entertainment Tonight about the moment through teary eyes in a backstage interview. — Jack Irvin, PEOPLE, 30 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for teary

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of teary was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing teary

Rhymes for teary

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Browse Nearby Words

tear up
teary
teary-eyed
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Cite this Entry

“Teary.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/teary. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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