Tear down Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Physical Structures Used when large, physical structures like buildings are completely removed. They plan to tear down the stadium next year. Pro Tip 2/3Urban Development Common in contexts of urban planning where outdated buildings are removed. To modernize the district, they will tear down several old warehouses. Pro Tip 3/3Historical Sensitivity May stir emotions if used about buildings with historical value. Activists protested the decision to tear down the heritage site.