Meaning & Definition
adjective
Worn out and thin, especially from much use; frayed or shabby.
The threadbare sofa in the living room was a sign of years of wear and tear.
Lacking in freshness or effectiveness because of overuse; stale.
His threadbare excuses for being late finally lost their credibility.
Reduced to the bare essentials; insubstantial.
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.
Slang Meanings
Used to describe something that is no longer fashionable or trendy.
His threadbare style was so last season.
Referring to ideas or arguments that are tired and unconvincing.
Stop with the threadbare excuses; we need real solutions.