tear

A tear is hole made by pulling or ripping something.

Example: I cannot wear a shirt with a tear in it!

A tear is a drop of water that comes from your eye when you cry.

Example: I felt sorry when I saw the tears running down her face.

If you tear something you make a hole in it, or make it into two pieces, by pulling it apart. It is making a tear.

Example: Paper is easier to tear than cloth.

If someone is tearing, that person has tears coming from the eyes. Often, this is called "tearing up." Usually, this is when the person is not crying in a way that can be heard.

Example: I tried to look brave, but started tearing up at the funeral.