Meaning & Definition of word "Threadbare"
to
Threadbare
/ˈθrɛdˌbɛr/
adjective:
- 1. Worn out and thin, especially from much use; frayed or shabby.
- Example: The threadbare sofa in the living room was a sign of years of wear and tear.
- 2. Lacking in freshness or effectiveness because of overuse; stale.
- Example: His threadbare excuses for being late finally lost their credibility.
- 3. Reduced to the bare essentials; insubstantial.
- Example: The team provided a threadbare explanation of their rationale, leaving many questions unanswered.
Etymology
From 'thread' + 'bare', literally meaning worn down to the threads.
Common Phrases and Expressions
threadbare excuse:
An excuse that is overly used and lacks credibility.
threadbare story:
A story that has been told many times and is no longer interesting.
Related Words
shabby:
In poor condition through long use or lack of care.
frayed:
Worn or torn at the edges.
Slang Meanings of threadbare
Meaning: Used to describe something that is no longer fashionable or trendy.
Example Sentence: His threadbare style was so last season.
Meaning: Referring to ideas or arguments that are tired and unconvincing.
Example Sentence: Stop with the threadbare excuses; we need real solutions.