Meaning & Definition of word "Frayed"

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    Frayed

    /freɪd/

    verb:

    • 1. Past tense of fray, meaning to wear or cause to wear away by rubbing or to unravel.
      • Example: The constant use frayed the edges of the once new carpet.

    adjective:

    • 1. Worn down, ragged, or having threads that are unraveling, typically referring to fabric or material.
      • Example: Her frayed jeans added a touch of vintage charm to her outfit.
    • 2. Show signs of strain or stress; often used metaphorically to describe emotional or psychological state.
      • Example: After weeks of hard work, his nerves were frayed and he needed a break.

    Etymology

    Middle English 'frayed,' from 'fray,' meaning to wear away.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    frayed nerves:

    A state of mental or emotional stress.

    frayed edges:

    Referring to something that is worn or tattered.

    Related Words

    fray:

    To unravel or become worn at the edge.

    fraying:

    The act of becoming frayed.

    Slang Meanings of frayed

    Meaning: Stressed out or worn down.

    Example Sentence: After that argument, he was totally frayed.

    Meaning: In disarray or falling apart.

    Example Sentence: Her plans for the weekend are all frayed since the weather turned bad.