Definition

Adjective: 1. Worn out from age or heavy use and no longer able to operate effectively: Used to describe machines, vehicles, or devices that are extremely old, exhausted, and often broken down due to extensive use. 2. Extremely tired or exhausted due to age or overwork: Used informally to describe a person who is very weary, fatigued, or past their prime.

Usage

The term "clapped out" is primarily informal and often used in British and Australian English. It vividly describes something or someone that is at the end of its useful life due to deterioration.

Examples

• Describing objects:

  • We finally had to replace our clapped-out old washing machine; it was making terrible noises.
  • He's trying to sell that clapped-out car, but I doubt anyone will buy it.

• Describing people:

  • After working three double shifts in a row, I feel completely clapped out.
  • The marathon runner looked clapped out as he crossed the finish line.

Advanced Usage

• "to be clapped out": The most common structure is the adjective following the verb "to be."
  • By the end of the tour, the band's equipment was completely clapped out.

Variants and Related Words

• Worn-out (adj): Similar in meaning, indicating something is damaged or exhausted from use. (e.g., )
• Beat-up (adj, informal): Describing something in poor condition from rough use. (e.g., )
• Done in (adj, informal): Extremely tired. (e.g., )

Synonyms

• Decrepit: Weakened or worn out by age or illness.
• Dilapidated: In a state of disrepair or ruin due to age or neglect.
• Exhausted: Drained of strength or energy; completely used up.
• Kaput (informal): Broken and useless; no longer working.

Antonyms

• Brand new: Completely new and unused.
• Pristine: In its original condition; unspoiled.
• Refurbished: Renovated and redecorated to a good standard.
• Robust: Strong and healthy; vigorous.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• On its last legs: Very old or worn and likely to stop working soon. This idiom is very close in meaning to "clapped out" for objects.
  • My laptop is on its last legs; I need a new one.
• Run into the ground: To use something so much that it is damaged or destroyed.
  • He ran that car into the ground; now it's completely clapped out.

Adjective

1. worn from age or heavy use and no longer able to operate (of cars or machines or people)